[An X-ray approach to differentiate benign and malignant bone tumors (author's transl)]

A critical analysis of X-ray signs induced by the interaction of a bone tumor with bone itself is presented. These enables the physician to recognise a pattern of characteristic findings for each particular tumor. Clinical examples are demonstrated illustrating at the same time a schematic classification of those signs on a roentgenogramm which in many cases facilitate the prediction of the specific diagnosis and in consequence the prognosis of the lesion. The need for an effective cooperation between the involved specialties is stressed.