Bone Sarcoma

What is Bone Sarcomaa?

Bone sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that begins in the bones. It often appears as a tumor, which may feel like a lump, bump, or mass that grows within the bone itself. Bone sarcomas can occur in any bone, but they are most often found in the long bones of the arms and legs, as well as the pelvis.

These cancers are uncommon. About 3,600 cases are diagnosed in the United States each year, which represents less
than two-tenths of one percent of all cancers.

1.7%

Of all new cancer diagnoses in the U.S. are sarcoma

83%

5-year survival rate for patients with localized sarcoma

17k

Newly diagnosed patients each year in the United States

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Types Of Sarcomas Cancers

Soft Tissue Sarcomas

Bone Sarcomas

Soft Tissuee Sarcomas

Approximately three-quarters of people diagnosed with sarcoma will be diagnosed with a type of soft tissue sarcoma. There are many types of soft tissue sarcoma. Some of those types are so rare that only a few cases will be diagnosed in the United States each year.

In their early stages, soft tissue sarcoma rarely show any symptoms. Because soft tissue is very elastic, tumors can grow quite large before they are felt as a lump or bump.

Pain may occur when a sarcoma starts to press on nearby muscles and nerves.

Imaging such as MRI scans, can help determine if a lump or mass has features consistent with a sarcoma.

The only way to make a definitive diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma is through a biopsy, which is when either the entire tumor or a small piece of it is surgically removed for testing. This is best performed by a skilled surgeon who is very familiar with sarcoma, and who will take great care in not allowing the spread of cancer cells during initial biopsies.

The most common types of soft tissue sarcoma cancers are described below. This is not intended to be a complete list and may not contain the specific sarcoma cancer type that you (or your loved one) have been diagnosed with. It is always best to work closely with your own oncologist and sarcoma cancer team who will help get you all the additional information that you will want to know.

Where Bone Sarcomas Develop

Bone sarcomas form in the hard tissue of the skeleton or in cartilage, which provides cushioning and support at the joints. Common areas where bone sarcomas occur include:

Long bones such as the femur, tibia, or humerus

Bones of the pelvis

Bones of the spine or chest wall

Bones around major joints such as the knee or shoulder

Signs and Symptoms

Bone sarcomas often begin with symptoms that can be mistaken for a sports injury or growing pains, especially in children and teens. Any symptom that persists or worsens over time should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Common symptoms include:

Bone pain that does not improve or becomes more intense over time

Swelling or a noticeable mass near a bone or joint

Pain at night or at rest

Warmth, tenderness, or stiffness in the affected area

A limp or decreased movement if a tumor affects a limb

Bone weakening that leads to a fracture after minimal injury

Because these symptoms can resemble more common conditions, timely evaluation is important.

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How Bone Sarcomas Are Diagnosed

Diagnosing bone sarcoma requires a combination of imaging, careful evaluation, and specialized testing.

Imaging

X-rays, CT scans, MRI scans, and sometimes bone scans help determine whether a mass has features that
suggest a bone tumor. Imaging also shows how the tumor is affecting the bone and surrounding tissues.

Consultation With a Specialist

A diagnosis should be handled by an orthopedic oncologist or bone surgeon who has experience with sarcoma.
Specialists understand how to plan both the biopsy and treatment in a way that protects the surrounding tissues and reduces the risk of cancer cells spreading.

Biopsy

A biopsy is the only way to confirm bone sarcoma. During this procedure, a surgeon removes either a small
sample or, in some cases, the entire tumor for examination. The biopsy must be performed with care to avoid
affecting future treatment options, which is why experience with sarcoma is essential.

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Common Bone Sarcoma Subtypes

Each subtype has its own characteristics, such as the age groups it affects and the bones it most often involves. Your oncology team will provide guidance specific to your diagnosis and help you understand the treatment plan that fits your situation.

A few of the most commonly diagnosed bone sarcomas include:

Mayo Clinic-Ewing Sarcoma

Brian Morden Foundation

Work With Your Care Team

Every soft tissue sarcoma diagnosis is unique. Your oncology team will help guide you through understanding your exact subtype, the best treatment options, and any additional information you may need as you move forward.