Bone cancer symptoms
Tumors may occur in any bone in the body. Bone cancer, also known as osteosarcoma, occurs most often in the long bones of the arms and legs. Many bone cancer symptoms may also be caused by conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis or injury. Anyone who is experiencing one or more of these symptoms should consult them with your doctor in order to find out the cause and receive the correct treatment, if necessary.
Possible symptoms of bone cancer include:
Bone pain: The most common sign of bone cancer is pain, and may become more painful as the tumor grows. Bone pain can cause a dull or deep ache in a bone or bone region (e.g., back, pelvis, legs, ribs, arms). In the early stage, the pain may only occur at night, or when you are active. As the cancer develops, though, the pain may become more persistent. Other conditions, like osteoporosis or arthritis, may also cause bone or joint pain.
Swelling: The area where the pain is localized may begin to show signs of swelling, or a lump or mass may be present.
Fractures: Cancerous cells can weaken the bone thus sometimes can result in a fracture. The break may occur in an area of the bone that had previously been sore or painful for a period of time.
Decreased mobility: In some cases, if the location of the tumor is near a joint, it may make normal movements difficult or painful.
Other symptoms: Unintended weight loss and fatigue that come with bone pain may be a signal of bone cancer. Other symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, may develop if the cancer has spread to other organs, such as the lungs.
More Information: Cancer Center
