A person who has or has had cancer and develops bone pain or swelling usually is examined for metastatic bone tumors. X-rays and bone scans using radioactive tracers can help locate these tumors. Occasionally, a metastatic bone tumor causes symptoms before the original cancer has been detected. Symptoms may consist of pain or a fracture where the tumor has weakened the bone. In these situations, a biopsy usually gives clues as to the location of the original cancer.
Treatment depends on the type of cancer.
Some types respond to chemotherapy, some to radiation therapy, some to both, and some to neither. Surgery to stabilize the bone can sometimes prevent fractures. All rights reserved.