What is malignant bone cancer, primary?

• Some tumors are aggressive and need treatment right away. But most cancer grows slowly enough that you can take a little time to find out more about your cancer as you decide about treatment.
• Think about getting a second opinion from another doctor. Before you start major treatment, it's a good idea to check with another doctor about the type of cancer you have and the stage of your cancer. Your doctor or insurance company can recommend someone for a second opinion.
• Ask any questions you might have. You can talk to your doctor, nurses, counselors, and other advisors.
• Talk to family, friends, and supporters. Get the kinds of help you need.

Symptoms of bone cancer can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor. The most common ones are pain and a lump or swelling over a bone. A tumor can weaken the bone, which may lead to a break (fracture).

The most common types of bone sarcomas in children include:

Osteosarcoma.

This tumor is also common in young adults. It often appears in the wider ends of bones, in the knee, shoulder, and sometimes the pelvis.

Ewing sarcoma.

This can be in the bone shaft (the middle of bones), mainly near the knee, pelvis, and upper arm.

Treatment for bone cancer is based on the stage of the cancer and other things, such as your overall health. The main treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. For certain types of bone tumors, other treatments may be used, such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy.

Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask questions about your health. You may have imaging tests, such as an X-ray, a CT scan, an MRI, or a bone scan. Blood tests may be done. A sample (biopsy) of the tumor may be removed to confirm the diagnosis.

Take medicines exactly as directed. When you eat, focus on foods with enough protein and calories, or try liquid meal replacements. Be active, but don't get too tired. Take part in rehab if it's recommended. Get enough sleep, and make time for things you enjoy. Consider joining a support group.

Bone cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the bone. These cells form a tumor. A cancerous (malignant) tumor can grow and spread to other parts of the body. (A benign bone tumor is not cancer.) Most bone cancers are a type of cancer called sarcoma. Examples include osteosarcoma and chondrosarcoma.