Some common bone cancer symptoms include pain in the affected bone, swelling or tenderness, a bone that breaks with little or no trauma, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Bone cancer, also known as a primary bone tumor, is a type of cancer that forms in the cells of the bones.

This article looks at the most common symptoms of bone cancer, treatment options, and when to contact a doctor.

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Symptoms of bone cancer can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Some people may not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the disease.

Symptoms may also depend on the type of bone cancer. For example, osteosarcoma, the most common type of bone cancer, typically causes pain and swelling in the affected bone.

Ewing sarcoma, another type of bone cancer, is more likely to cause pain and swelling in the soft tissue surrounding the affected bone.

It is important to note that other conditions can also cause these symptoms. A person should contact a doctor if they are experiencing possible bone cancer symptoms.

Pain is the most common symptom of bone cancer. It can occur in the affected bone or surrounding soft tissue.

The pain may be a dull ache that worsens over time or a sharp pain that comes and goes.

In some cases, the pain may be constant and can worsen with activity or at night. The pain can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities and sleep.

Swelling or a lump can be a symptom of bone cancer, particularly in the case of tumors that develop in the soft tissue surrounding the affected bone.

The swelling or lump may come with pain or tenderness in the area.

The lump may be visible and touchable, or it may be deeper in the body and not visible on the skin’s surface.

Fractures, or broken bones, can be a symptom of bone cancer, particularly in the advanced stages of the disease.

Bone cancer can weaken the structure of the bone, making it more prone to fractures, even with minimal trauma.

Experts refer to this type of fracture as a pathological fracture. This is because it occurs due to a pathological condition, such as cancer, rather than a traumatic event, such as a fall.

In addition to the above, other symptoms of bone cancer can include:

  • Fatigue: Bone cancer can cause fatigue. This is typically due to the body’s response to the cancerous cells and the side effects of treatment.
  • Weight loss: Cancer cells can cause an increased metabolic rate, which can lead to weight loss.
  • Fever or chills: Cancerous cells can cause an infection, leading to a fever or chills.
  • Anemia: Bone cancer can cause anemia, a condition in which the body does not produce enough red blood cells.

A person should talk with a doctor if they experience any of the above symptoms.

A doctor can conduct tests to determine the cause of the symptoms and make a diagnosis. These may include:

Treatment and management of bone cancer symptoms will depend on the type and stage of the cancer and the person’s overall health and preferences.

The main treatment options for bone cancer include:

  • Surgery: Surgery can remove the cancerous tumor and repair or rebuild the affected bone. Depending on the location and size of the tumor, surgery may involve amputation of the affected limb or reconstruction using bone grafts or artificial implants.
  • Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
  • Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Doctors may recommend this before or after surgery or as the primary treatment for bone cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.
  • Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy is a treatment that uses drugs to target specific proteins on the surface of cancer cells. Doctors may recommend this alone or in combination with other treatments.
  • Pain management: Pain management is important in treating and managing bone cancer symptoms. A doctor may recommend pain-relieving medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or opioids.

Below are answers to some common questions about bone cancer symptoms.

Where does bone cancer typically start?

Bone cancer can develop in any bone in the body. It most commonly starts in the bones of the arms and legs, particularly around the knee and upper arm.

The pelvis, ribs, and spinal column are also common sites for bone cancer development.

Who is most likely to get bone cancer?

Bone cancer can affect people of all ages. It is most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults under age 20 years old.

Bone cancer forms in the cells of the bones.

Symptoms of bone cancer include persistent or worsening pain in a bone or joint, a lump or swelling in a bone or joint, a fracture that occurs with minimal trauma, fatigue, weight loss, fever or chills, and anemia.

Treatment and management of bone cancer will depend on the type and stage of the cancer and the person’s overall health and preferences.

A person should contact a doctor if they experience any symptoms of bone cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly increase the chance of a positive outlook.