Malignant tumours of bone: clinical aspects and natural course

An accurate pathological diagnosis must be made prior to treatment of a primary malignant bone tumour. Consideration must be given to the clinical and radiologic aspects as well as the histology. Both benign and malignant tumours occur more frequently in certain decades. A search should be made for precursor lesions such as Paget's disease. The presenting manifestations of pain, a mass and dysfunction are not specific for tumours. Laboratory tests may be helpful, especially in distinguishing tumours from infections and metabolic diseases. Metastasis is usually via the blood stream to the lungs and bones. The low survival rate following amputation for osteosarcoma and radiation therapy for Ewing's sarcoma has been improved by chemotherapy. The lower-grade tumours such as aggressive giant cell tumour and low-grade chondrosarcoma can often by treated successfully by resection and insertion of an autograft, an allograft or a metallic implant.