CanTeen

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Bone tumors

Cancer that starts in the bone often starts in the ends of the bones where the bone tissue forms as you grow. Occurs most often in adolescence.

Brookes story

Osteosarcoma

Cancer that begins in the bone forming cells. Most commonly occurs in the arm and leg bones.

Incidence

Commonly occurs between the ages of 10-25, accounting for 5% of all teenage cancers. The disease is associated with rapid growth so it is rare to see in children before puberty.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the size, position and stage of the tumor (how far the cancer has spread). Chemotherapy is usually given to shrink the tumor before and/or the tumor is surgically removed. Radiotherapy may be given. Treatment can last take 5 to 18 months depending on the individuals circumstances.

Follow up

70-75% of adolescents with osteosarcoma survive the disease. Effects of the treatment may require further medical treatment.

Ewing's sarcoma

A family of tumors found in bone and soft tissues. The disease can develop anywhere in the body, but most commonly occurs in the spine, hips, upper arm, long bones in the thigh or ribs.

Incidence

Most commonly occurs in the teenage years, accounting for 2% of all teenage cancers

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the size, position and stage of the tumor (how far the cancer has spread).Chemotherapy is usually given to shrink the tumor before and/or the tumor is surgically removed. Radiotherapy may be administered as well as limb-sparing surgery.

Follow up

Most adolescents with Ewings sarcoma can be cured. If the disease occurs in one of the main bones of the arm or leg it may be necessary to replace the limb or part of the affected bone, with a prothesis, and regular follow up will be necessary. Further surgery later in life may be necessary.