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What is Osteogenic Sarcoma?
| Osteogenic sarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer occurring in childhood. The peak age is between 10 to 20 years. It occurs more commonly in males (male to female ratio 1.6:1). The aetiology of Osteogenic sarcoma is generally unknown, however evidence suggests that age, sex and its anatomical site correlate well with periods of rapid growth.
| symptoms
| Bone pain is the most common mode of penetration associated with osteogenic sarcoma. This can be with or without swelling of the affected area. Systemic metastasis are rarely seen at diagnosis, however if detected, are most commonly found in the lungs, or less commonly, other bones. Over 80% of osteogenic sarcoma cases are found within the lower limbs, most commonly around the knee. However any bone in the body may be affected.
| tests
| A tissue biopsy of the affected area is the only definitive diagnosis of osteogenic sarcoma. With this in mind, other diagnostic tests may be performed in order to gain a better understanding of the size, shape and perhaps extent of the disease. Such tests include Chest X-Ray, CT Scan, MRI, bone scan, etc. Collectively, the information gained provides greater understanding of the nature of Osteogenic sarcoma, therefore determining the most appropriate course of treatment.
| treatment
| Treatment of Osteogenic sarcoma depends on the age of the patient, the size of the tumour and the presence or absence of metastases. Children generally receive a combined therapy including chemotherapy and surgery, with radiotherapy also being indicated in some cases. Following numerous courses of chemotherapy, and the desired result of a smaller tumour, surgery is often indicated. Prosthetic replacement is the preferred surgery, which involves the removal of the tumour and surrounding bone, and replacing it with an artificial bone or joint. If this form of surgery is not possible, amputation of the attached limb is indicated. Chemotherapy and surgery options may vary from patient to patient according to age and tumour response.
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