Types of Bone Tumors, Symptoms, and Treatment

Bone, the hardest organ in the body, provides strength, power, and flexibility. It is rich in minerals such as calcium, zinc, and phosphorus, as well as proteins. Bone health is closely related to bone density, which varies according to the level of calcium intake.

Over time, various changes can occur in the cells of bone tissue due to environmental or hereditary factors. Cells that proliferate uncontrollably in an abnormal way can form a mass or tumor in that area. If untreated, the growing and spreading tumor can damage the structure of the bone and surrounding tissues, posing a life-threatening risk. Therefore, individuals with a suspicion of bone tumor are advised to consult the Orthopedics and Traumatology department. Basically, there are two types of bone tumors: benign and malignant.

Benign Bone Tumors

Benign bone tumors can pose a life-threatening risk if left untreated, despite their slow growth. They are classified into various types.

These include:

Osteochondroma

Non-Ossifying Fibroma

Giant Cell Tumor

Enchondroma

Fibrous Dysplasia

Malignant Bone Tumors

Malignant bone tumors are cancerous cells and tend to spread to other parts of the body over time. The types of malignant bone tumors can be listed as follows:

Osteosarcoma

Ewing Sarcoma

Chondrosarcoma

Metastatic Bone Tumors

Multiple Myeloma

The exact cause of bone tumors is not fully understood, but some risk factors have emerged from research.

Bone tumors are known to occur more frequently in men.

Those with a family history of bone tumors have an increased risk.

Exposure to high doses of radiation used in cancer treatment poses a risk for the formation of bone tumors.

Rapid bone growth during childhood increases the likelihood of developing bone tumors.

Poor nutrition and inactivity create a foundation for bone tumors.

What Are the Symptoms of Bone Tumors?

The most common symptom of a bone tumor is the formation of mild pain in the affected bone. Although the pain starts off mild and infrequent, it can become more serious and persistent over time.

Pathological bone fractures can be a significant symptom in insidiously progressing bone tumors. The already weakened bone due to tumor formation can fracture with a slight impact.

Additionally, palpable masses in various parts of the body can be a sign of bone tumor, and some tumors can cause fever and night sweats.

When a patient presents to the hospital with the above complaints, a physical examination is conducted first. The patient's family history, any health issues, and complaints are listened to. Bone sensitivity and range of motion are checked. If a tumor is suspected, a simple imaging film called a direct graph may be requested from the patient. Detailed blood tests and urine tests can also be guiding for bone tumors. Furthermore, advanced imaging methods such as Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), bone scintigraphy, and PET scans can be utilized; a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken from the area suspected of being a tumor. The tests are evaluated as a whole by specialist doctors and the necessary diagnosis is made.

How is Bone Tumor Treated?

Benign bone tumors generally do not require any treatment and may resolve on their own. However, in some cases, they need to be monitored due to the risk of turning into malignant tumors. Tumors that cause bone fractures, especially those affecting growth negatively in children, can be surgically removed if they lead to shortening or curvature of the bone.

In the treatment of malignant bone tumors, a multidisciplinary approach is applied. An appropriate treatment method is determined based on the type of tumor, its spread, and the patient's overall health condition. The first preferred treatment is surgical intervention. The aim of surgical treatment is to remove the entire tumor while preserving the relevant bone tissue. Additionally, in cases where the tumor cannot be completely removed or to prevent cancer recurrence, chemotherapy and radiotherapy may also be utilized.