Bone Cancer: A Review of Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

Introduction

This review aims to provide comprehensive information about bone cancer. The definition, classification, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment methods, multidisciplinary approach, quality of life, supportive care, rehabilitation, recovery and follow-up process of bone cancer are discussed in detail. This article is a guide for patients, families and healthcare professionals struggling with bone cancer.

What is Bone Cancer?

Bone cancer is a type of cancer that occurs as a result of uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in bone tissue. This cancer can occur in the bones or can be seen as metastatic cancer spreading from another organ. It is usually more common in children and young people, but it can also be seen in adults, although it is rare.

Classification of Bone Cancer

Bone cancer is divided into two main groups:

• Primary Bone Cancer: It originates from bone tissue.
• Secondary Bone Cancer: It is metastatic cancer that spreads from other organs.

The common types of primary bone cancer are:

• Osteosarcoma: It develops in long bones and usually affects young people.
• Chondrosarcoma: It originates from cartilage tissue and is seen in areas such as the pelvis and shoulder.
• Ewing Sarcoma: It is common in children and young adults.
• Fibrosarcoma: It originates from fibroblast cells is caused by and is rare.

Causes of Bone Cancer

Causes of bone cancer are based on genetic and environmental factors.

Genetic Factors

Individuals with a family history of bone cancer are at risk. Inherited gene mutations can also increase the risk of bone cancer. Genetic testing is an important tool in determining this risk.

Environmental Factors

Environmental factors such as exposure to radiation, working with chemicals and heavy metals can increase the risk of bone cancer. The risk is higher in individuals who received radiation therapy in childhood.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Bone Cancer

Symptoms of bone cancer include:

• Pain: Pain that continues at rest and increases over time.
• Swelling and Mass: A growing mass or swelling in the affected area.
• Bone Fractures: Cancerous bones break easily.

Diagnostic methods include:

• Radiological examinations (X-ray, MRI, CT, PET scans)
• Bone scintigraphy
• Biopsy

Treatment Methods of Bone Cancer

The main methods used in bone cancer treatment methods include:

Surgical Intervention

It is applied to remove the cancerous bone and surrounding tissues. Post-surgical rehabilitation is important to increase the patient's mobility.

Chemotherapy

Drug treatment is applied to destroy cancer cells or control their growth. Side effects include hair loss, fatigue and weakening of the immune system.

Radiotherapy

High-energy rays are used to destroy cancer cells or prevent their growth. Radiotherapy is applied to shrink tumors and relieve symptoms.

Targeted Therapies

These treatments, which specifically target cancer cells, provide effective results when used in conjunction with other treatment methods.

Multidisciplinary Approach

Cooperation between different areas of expertise is important in bone cancer treatment:

• Orthopedic Tumor Surgeons: Perform surgical interventions.
• Oncologists: Manage chemotherapy and targeted treatments.
• Radiation Oncologists: Perform radiotherapy applications.
• Pathologists: Determine the type and stage of the tumor.
• Physiotherapists: Rehabilitation process manages.

Current Developments

Recently, significant developments have been made in the treatment of bone cancer:

• Immunotherapy: Destroys cancer cells by strengthening the immune system.
• Targeted Therapies: Affect targets specific to cancer cells.
• Gene Therapies: Aim to change the genetic structures of cancer cells.

Quality of Life and Supportive Care

Supportive care is important to improve the quality of life of patients. This care includes symptom management, nutritional support, and psychosocial support.

Rehabilitation

A rehabilitation process is implemented to increase the patient's mobility after treatment and help them return to normal life:

• Physiotherapy and Exercise: Increases muscle strength and improves mobility.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet is recommended to increase body resistance.

Conclusion and Recommendations

A multidisciplinary approach and supportive services are important in the treatment of bone cancer. New treatment methods, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies are promising. Palliative care and psychosocial support should be provided to improve the quality of life of patients.