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Updated: Jul 7, 2026
08:07
Three-Dimensional Bone Extracellular Matrix Model for Osteosarcoma
Published on: April 12, 2019
Osteosarcoma associated with absent thumbs: a report of two cases
L Orme1, R Gorlick, P A Meyers
1Department of Pediatrics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York 10021, USA.
Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
|March 1, 2000
Summary
Congenitally absent thumbs may indicate an increased risk for osteosarcoma, even without a known syndrome. Early detection and treatment are crucial for positive outcomes in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Clinical Genetics
Background:
- Osteosarcoma is a rare bone cancer primarily affecting children and young adults.
- Certain congenital syndromes are associated with an increased risk of osteosarcoma.
- Absent thumbs are a noted feature in some of these syndromes.
Observation:
- Two pediatric patients presented with osteosarcoma (a tibial lesion and a femoral fracture).
- Both patients exhibited congenitally absent thumbs but had no identifiable underlying syndrome.
- The osteosarcoma diagnosis was confirmed via biopsy in both cases.
Findings:
- The study suggests a potential link between congenitally absent thumbs and osteosarcoma.
- This association may exist independently of known genetic syndromes.
- Congenitally absent thumbs could be an unrecognized risk factor for osteosarcoma.
Implications:
- Further research is warranted to explore the potential risk factor of absent thumbs in osteosarcoma development.
- Clinicians should consider osteosarcoma screening in children with absent thumbs, even without other syndromic features.
- Early identification and management of osteosarcoma in this population can lead to improved patient outcomes.
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