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Updated: Apr 25, 2026

Modeling Primary Bone Tumors and Bone Metastasis with Solid Tumor Graft Implantation into Bone
Published on: September 9, 2020
Long-term benefits versus side-effects from bone-targeted therapies for cancer patients: minimizing risk while
Carmel Jacobs1, Terry Ng, Michael Ong
1Division of Medical Oncology, University of Ottawa & Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Purpose Of Review:
Bone-targeted therapies such as bisphosphonates and denosumab are established in the treatment of cancer patients to prevent or delay skeletal-related events and improve quality of life. Along with these benefits of bone-targeted therapies, there are also known risks and adverse effects.
Recent Findings:
Although historically bone-targeted therapy use has been limited to palliation in patients with bone metastases, recent evidence suggests that these agents may also have anti-cancer effects. This will likely lead to the greater use of these agents in patients with earlier-stage disease. Increased use will lead to more adverse effects. In particular, the risk of rare but severe toxicities will become important.
Summary:
This article explores strategies to maximize the clinical benefit of such therapy while minimizing associated risks.
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