Types of bone tumors:
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.