Cancer And The Skeleton

Question 1

What are the signs and symptoms of cancers in bones?

Answer 1

1. Pain
2. Lump
3. Pathologic fracture (will have pain prior to fracture)
4. Systemic symptoms (malaise, rigours, fever)
5. Neurological symptoms
6. Hypercalcaemic symptoms (emergency- fluid rehydration)

Question 2

What are the main investigations that are done for cancers in the skeleton?

Answer 2

1. Plain radiograph (diagnosing)
2. Ultrasound (usually more soft tissue)
3. MRI
4. CT
5. Isotope scan
6. Biopsy
7. Special investigations