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Q.

What is primary bone cancer?

Related Topics: Bone Cancer
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Primary bone sarcoma is a tumor that forms first in bone. It is less common than metastatic cancer. The cause of bone sarcoma is not certain, but heredity may play a role. High-dose radiation therapy or cancer drugs may increase the risk of this type of cancer. These are some of the most common types of bone cancer:

  • Osteosarcoma begins in bone cells and is most common around the knee and upper arm. Most of the time, it is found in teens and young adults. There is an adult form of this tumor that is usually seen in persons with pre-existing Paget’s disease of bone.
  • Ewing's sarcoma also is seen in younger people between the ages of 5 and 20. The ribs, pelvis, leg, and upper arm are the most common sites. It usually shows up in bone, but it can also start in soft tissue around bones. 
  • Chondrosarcoma occurs most often in people between 40 and 70. The hip, pelvis, leg, arm, and shoulder are common sites of this cancer, which begins in cartilage cells.

Although almost always found in bone, multiple myeloma is not a primary bone cancer. It is a bone marrow cancer. Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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