2023-09-17 05:00:00
Fatima Khalil wrote Sunday, September 17, 2023 08:00 AM
Sarcoma is a rare group of cancers that begin in the bones or soft tissues of the body. In other words, sarcoma is a term used to describe Bone cancer Cancers that develop in connective tissues represent regarding 1% to 2% of all cancers that affect children, adolescents, and even adults. Although bone cancer can develop anywhere in the body, it mostly develops in the arms and legs. According to the Times of India website.
How is bone cancer diagnosed?
Osteosarcoma is a type of cancer that requires different tests for accurate diagnosis, although not all tests are necessary for every individual.
When choosing diagnostic tests, doctors consider several factors such as the type of cancer suspected, the signs and symptoms the patient is experiencing, age, general health, and results of previous medical tests.
What tests diagnose and identify bone cancer?
Bone examination
A bone scan helps determine the stage of osteosarcoma. A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into the patient’s vein, which collects in bone areas.
A special camera detects the radiation emitted by the tracking device, creating images in which healthy bones appear lighter, while areas damaged by cancer cells or fractures stand out.
Can tumors be diagnosed with blood tests?
Laboratory blood tests alone cannot diagnose sarcomas. However, in some cases of osteosarcoma elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase and lactate dehydrogenase may be present.
It’s important to note that these substances can also be elevated for non-cancerous reasons, such as normal growth in children or healing of broken bones.
Can bone deformities be identified with x-rays?
X-rays use a small amount of radiation to create images of the body’s internal structures. They provide a visual representation of the bone and can help identify any abnormalities or tumors.
CT scan
CT scans use X-rays taken from different angles to create detailed 3D images of the body, and they can measure the size of a tumor and identify abnormalities or tumors. Contrast medium, a special dye, may be used to improve image clarity.
Magnetic resonance imaging
An MRI uses magnetic fields instead of X-rays to produce detailed images of the body.
It can measure the size of the tumor and detect nearby soft tissue involvement, and contrast medium may or may not be used to improve image quality.
Computed tomography (PET-CT)
A PET scan is often combined with a CT scan to determine the stage of osteosarcoma. A radioactive sugar substance is injected into the body, which is absorbed by cells that are actively using energy, including cancer cells. The scanner detects this substance and produces images of organs and tissues.
Biopsy
A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue for microscopic examination. While other tests may indicate cancer, only a biopsy can provide a definitive diagnosis. A pathologist then analyzes the sample to confirm the presence of cancer.
Biopsies may be done through a needle or by making a small incision, depending on the location of the tumor. It is necessary to undergo a biopsy in a specialized center, as the procedure is very important both in the diagnosis and as a result of appropriate treatment. In addition, the pathologist must review the tissue sample to ensure an accurate diagnosis of sarcoma.
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