[Diagnosis of bone tumors]

For the prognosis of the relatively rare bone tumours the time of neglect has an essential importance. At every suspicion of a bone tumour a systematic diagnostics which is directed to the clarification of the malignity should be carried out. The anamnesis often contains references which particularly allow an early recognition of the disease. Only the synopsis of anamnestic, clinical and paraclinical, radiological and bioptical findings ascertains the correct diagnosis. The modern diagnostic methods are discussed concerning their differential-diagnostic valency and range of indications. The close collaboration between peripheral and central institutions on the one hand and between surgeons, radiologists and pathologists on the other is necessary to make a certain diagnosis of the bone tumour in shortest time. A national and central register of cases of bone tumours would be recommendable.