Doctor shares ‘early’ bone cancer symptoms as 76% of cases go misdiagnosed
There are around 380 primary bone cancer deaths every year in the UK, and health experts have warned that symptoms of the devastating disease can often overlap with a range of other conditions.
Primary bone cancer, also known as bone sarcoma, is a cancer that starts in a cell found in the bone. According to the NHS, 550 Brits are diagnosed with the illness every year. This differs from secondary bone cancer, which occurs when the cancer spreads to the bones after developing in another part of the body.
The disease gained attention in April this year, when Strictly Come Dancing star Len Goodman died at the age of 78 following a short battle with the illness. It is not known whether Len had primary or secondary bone cancer.
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It can affect people of any age, but for some types of bone cancer, younger people face a higher risk. Cancer Research UK highlights that osteosarcoma is more common in adolescents and has been linked to the growth of the bones during puberty.
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Another condition that strikes in younger people is ewing sarcoma, while chondrosarcomas and spindle cell sarcomas often target adults aged between 30 and 60. Bone cancer is slightly more common in men than women and is more prevalent in the long bones of the legs or upper arms.
Research by the Bone Cancer Research Trust found that around 76 per cent of all primary bone cancer cases in the UK are initially misdiagnosed. Early detection of bone cancer can increase the chances of successful treatment.
Speaking to the Express, Dr Chun Tang, Medical Director and GP at Pall Mall Medical, highlighted the early warning signs to watch out for. Here are the most common symptoms.
Swelling
Swelling or a noticeable lump near the affected bone could be a tell-tale sign of the disease. Dr Tang said: "The lump may feel firm and tender to the touch. Swelling may not always be painful."
NHS Inform adds: “Some people also experience swelling and redness (inflammation) or notice a lump on or around the affected bone.”
Pain
A common symptom of the disease is bone pain, explains the doctor. He said: "The pain may initially be mild and intermittent but can become more severe and persistent as the cancer progresses. The pain is often described as deep, aching, and localised to the affected bone."
NHS Inform says pain caused by bone cancer usually begins with a feeling of tenderness in the affected bone. “This gradually progresses to a persistent ache or ache that comes and goes, which continues at night and when resting. Any bone can be affected, although bone cancer most often develops in the long bones of the legs or upper arms.”
Pain caused by bone cancer usually begins with a feeling of tenderness (Getty Images/iStockphoto)Limited range of motion
If the tumour is located near the joint, this could lead to stiffness and restrict the joint’s range of motion. “If the bone is near a joint, the swelling may make it difficult to use the joint,” writes NHS Inform.
Fractures
Bone cancer can weaken the affected bone, making it more prone to fractures (breaks). Dr Tang said: "Sometimes, a fracture occurs without significant trauma or injury, and this can be a sign of underlying bone cancer."
Unexplained weight loss
If someone is experiencing unexplained weight loss, this could be a warning sign of bone cancer. However, it can also be a symptom of “various cancers”, explains Dr Tang.
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Fatigue
Fatigue and a general feeling of unwellness may accompany bone cancer, especially as the disease progresses, said Dr Tang. It's important to remember these symptoms can also be caused by many other conditions or injuries.
The NHS has explained that a high temperature of 38C or above and sweating, particularly at night, as less common symptoms of bone cancer. Dr Tang advised: "If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
"They will conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include imaging studies (X-rays, CT scans, MRI) and possibly a biopsy to confirm or rule out bone cancer. Early detection and treatment can greatly improve the prognosis for bone cancer, so it's crucial not to ignore persistent or unusual symptoms."
The NHS adds: “While it's highly unlikely that your symptoms are caused by cancer, it's best to be sure by getting a proper diagnosis.”
What causes bone cancer?
Cancer occurs when the cells in a certain area of the body divide and multiply too rapidly, however the exact causes for primary bone cancer are not known. However, NHS Inform have said certain people facer a greater risk of developing the disease, including those with:
Previous radiotherapy treatment
Other bone conditions, such as Paget's disease of the bone
Rare genetic conditions, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome
A history of certain other conditions, including retinoblastoma and umbilical hernia
Sometimes people discover they have primary bone cancer following an injury to their bone. They may think the injury caused the cancer to develop, but Macmillan Cancer Support says: "There is no clear evidence that an injury to a bone can cause bone cancer. But it may draw attention to a bone cancer that is already there."
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