["Detection" criteria in the early diagnosis of osseous tumors]

From the sum of the indications already given by the case history with regard to age and mode of starting and evolution, as well as from the objective examination with regard to site and the radiological examination as regards the x-ray aspect and the particular figurative manifestations, it is already possible to form some idea at least concerning the presence or otherwise of the bone tumour and its benign or malignant character, or in some cases even the type of tumour. Logically the diagnosis must generally by made on the basis of the mentioned laboratory examinations, hospital observation, biopsy and histological examination, naturally taking into consideration the various factors for and against, to which reference has already been made. In any case, since this is not the place for a study of the individual bone tumours or for differential diagnosis of the various bone tissues, it would seem that, for the purpose of being able to recognise or even only suspect the presence of a bone tumour in good time for it to be sent to hospital for effective treatment, the mentioned alarm and recognition criteria should be borne in mind as soon as any doubt is felt by the general practitioner; and such doubt should arise fairly easily, since it is always better to be over-suspicious than under-suspicious.