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Pathological fracture as the presenting feature in pediatric osteosarcoma
Ryan K L Lee1, Winnie C W Chu, Joyce H Y Leung
1Department of Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong. leekalok2909@yahoo.com.hk
Pediatric Blood & Cancer
|January 3, 2013
Summary
Pathological fractures in pediatric osteosarcoma patients at initial diagnosis indicate a higher risk of lung and bone metastases and poorer survival outcomes. Early detection and management are crucial for improving patient prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Orthopedic Oncology
- Skeletal Metastasis Research
Background:
- Pathological fractures are rare initial presentations in long bone osteosarcoma.
- Osteosarcoma is a primary bone malignancy predominantly affecting children and young adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the metastatic patterns and survival outcomes of pediatric osteosarcoma patients presenting with pathological fractures versus those without.
- To evaluate treatment strategies and complications in pediatric osteosarcoma patients with pathological fractures.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of osteosarcoma patients under 18 years (1991-2011).
- Comparison of five patients with pathological fractures at presentation against ten matched controls without fractures.
- Analysis of treatment, complications, distant metastases, local recurrence, and survival rates.
Main Results:
- Patients with pathological fractures had significantly higher rates of lung and bone metastases at presentation (60% vs. 10%).
- The pathological fracture group exhibited a worse 5-year survival rate compared to the control group (P=0.04).
- No significant difference in local recurrence rates was observed between the groups.
Conclusions:
- Osteosarcoma with an initial pathological fracture is associated with increased metastatic disease and reduced survival.
- Pathological fracture as the first sign of osteosarcoma warrants aggressive evaluation for metastatic spread.
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