When a child is diagnosed with osteosarcoma or (Bone cancer), it can be a hurtful experience for the entire family. This rare form of malignant(cancerous) bone tumor occurs predominantly in children, teens, and young adults, and it can have a significant impact on a child’s physical and emotional well-being.
In the United States, every year around 400 children younger than 20 is affected by this bone tissue cancer. It occurs mostly in boys rather than girls. It usually presents in the bones around the knee and arms but can affect other bones too.
WHAT CAUSES BONE CANCER IN KIDS?
Osteosarcoma occurs when osteoblasts a kind of bone cell start to extend abnormally. Doctors don’t know why this happens, but it is believed to be due to DNA mutations inside bone cells—either inherited or acquired after birth.
The symptoms of osteosarcoma can be subtle at first, and also depend on the size and location of the bone tumor, as well as your child’s age and general health, making it difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms include pain in the affected bone, swelling, and tenderness. The pain may be worse at night or with activity, and may not respond well to over-the-counter pain medications. In some cases, a lump or mass may be visible in the affected area.
The prime role of parents is to seek medical attention right away whenever their children have symptoms.
Other symptoms may include:
- Pain may radiate outward from the tumor site
- Pain that awakes the child from a sound sleep
- Weak bones, which may lead to a broken bone
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Anemia
WHERE DOES BONE CANCER START IN KIDS?
Osteosarcoma usually develops at the edges of the long bones, especially the bottom of the thigh bone (femur) and the top of the larger shin bone (tibia). The second most common site for these tumors is at the ends of the upper arm bone (humerus) close to the shoulder. Other places where we can find bone tumors are the pelvis, shoulder, and skull. As we know cancers can invade other organs or tissue which is similar to bone cancer also, most commonly starting with the lungs.
Diagnosis of osteosarcoma typically begins with a thorough physical examination and medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs may also be used to help identify the tumor. A biopsy, or removal of a small piece of tissue from the tumor, is usually performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for osteosarcoma typically involves a combination of surgery, multi-agent chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Patients must be evaluated by an orthopedic oncologist who is familiar with the surgical management of osteosarcoma. Surgery is typically the first line of treatment and may involve removing the entire affected bone and replacing it with a prosthetic. Chemotherapy is used to shrink the tumor and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body. Radiation therapy may also be used to shrink the tumor and prevent a recurrence.
The road to recovery can be long and difficult, but with the right support and care, children with osteosarcoma can go on to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
CAN A CHILD SURVIVE BONE CANCER?
The prognosis for children with osteosarcoma is generally good, with a survival rate of over 70%. However, treatment can be difficult and children may suffer from long-term side effects such as limb weakness, pain, and bone deformity. Long-term follow-up care is important for monitoring for recurrence and managing side effects.
As a parent, it’s important to be there for your child every step of the way. Show them that you love and support them and that you will do everything in your power to help them through this difficult time. And if your child is diagnosed with osteosarcoma, remember that they are not alone. There are many resources available to help families navigate this journey, from support groups to financial assistance. Together, we can give children with osteosarcoma the hope and strength they need to beat this disease.
RESOURCES
