Detecting Bone Cancer

Pain Location

The first step in detecting bone cancer is locating the pain. The most common symptom for bone cancer is an inconstant pain in the affected bone that worsens at night or when the bone is used. The once infrequent pain will become constant as the cancer begins to spread through the bone.

Swelling

The next most noticeable symptom that can lead to the detection of bone cancer is swelling. Swelling usually does not take place in connection with the first signs of pain; it may take several weeks for the swelling to begin, in fact. Depending upon where the tumor is located the swelling may be accompanied by a lump beneath the skin.

X-Rays

Once pain and swelling has taken place to alert a doctor to the potential for bone cancer, detection may take place with X-rays. Bone cancer usually shows up in an X-ray as a result of the bone no longer appearing solid. The cancer may be exhibited either as a hole in the bone on the X-ray, or the bone may appear to be frayed. The X-ray is used to indicate malignancy in a tumor, but that malignancy can only be confirmed through a biopsy.

Computer Tomography Scan (CT Scan)

A CT scan is a form of X-ray that creates a far more detailed cross-section view of the body. Several images of the inside of the body are taken and then a computer is used to piece them together into a three-dimensional image. The CT scan is more useful than traditional X-rays for detecting the spread of cancer throughout the bone.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

An MRI uses radio waves and magnetic technology to offer a glimpse inside the body. Magnetic imaging is particularly useful for providing a broader outline of the state of a bone tumor. Unfortunately, this method for detecting bone cancer is not for everybody; it can be too intense for those suffering from even mild claustrophobia and often requires patients to remain still for prolonged periods, occasionally up to an hour.

Biopsy

After all the imaging tests have been done to detect the potential for a cancerous tumor, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. A biopsy is a simply the process of taking extracting tissue from the tumor so that it can be analyzed with a microscope to completely confirm that cancer is present and the pain and swelling are not being caused by some other disease or infection.