Bone Tumors

Know your risks

While the exact causes of most bone tumors remain unknown, certain genetic and environmental factors can increase your risk of developing them.

Inherited genetic syndromes

Certain rare genetic conditions can increase the risk of bone tumors.

Family history

In some cases, a family history of bone tumors can also increase your risk.

Radiation therapy

Certain types of radiation treatment can increase the risk of bone cancer in the area treated.

Chemotherapy

Certain types of chemotherapy can increase the risk of bone cancer.

Paget's disease of the bone

This condition, which causes abnormal bone growth, can increase the risk of bone cancer.

Recognizing the signs

While the exact symptoms of a bone tumor can vary depending on the type and location of the tumor, here are some common signs and symptoms to watch for:

Pain

This is often the first symptom. The pain may be constant or intermittent, but is usually localized to a specific area of a the bone.

Swelling

The affected area may become swollen or enlarged

Limp

If the tumor is in a weight-bearing bone, you may notice a limp.

Fractures

The bone may become weaker and more susceptible to breaks.

Mass

A lump or mass may be felt on the affected area.

Fever

In some cases, a tumor can cause a fever.

Weight loss

Unintended weight loss can be a sign of a malignant tumor.

Night sweats

Night sweats are another possible symptom of a malignant tumor.

If you experience any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment with a doctor for an evaluation.

Diagnosing bone tumors

Bone tumors can be challenging to diagnoses due to their similarity to other bone conditions, especially in the early stages. However, our specialists are expert in using advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify the presence of bone tumors and their type.

Biopsy

Bone scan

Computed tomography (CT scan)

Magentic resonance imaging (MRI)

PET scan

X-ray

Treating bone tumors

The right treatment for a bone tumor will depend on several factors, including the type of tumor, its size, its location and your overall health.

Our bone tumor program leverages the expertise of a diverse team of specialists. From surgeons to oncologists, we collaborate to deliver comprehensive and compassionate care.

Common bone tumors we treat

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC)

A rare, benign bone tumor that consists of a blood-filled multiloculated cavity with a thick fibrous lining.

Chondroblastoma

A rare bone tumor more likely to appear in males, children and young adults. Though benign, it is aggressive with high propensity for local recurrence.

Chondromyxofibroma

Chondromyxofibroma is a rare, benign bone tumor that typically affects the long bones, causing pain and swelling.

Ewings sarcoma

A type of bone cancer made up of small, round, blue cells. It’s the fourth most common bone cancer and usually starts in the long bones, like the legs.

Giant cell tumor of bone

A giant cell tumor of the bone is a rare, benign but aggressive tumor that typically develops near the ends of long bones, such as the femur or tibia.

Multiple myeloma

A type of cancer that affects plasma cells, which are a kind of white blood cell found in the bone marrow.

Osteochondroma

A non-cancerous growth that forms on the surface of a bone, usually near the ends of long bones like those in the legs or arms.

Help every step of the way

Know your risks

Recognizing the signs

Diagnosing bone tumors

Treating bone tumors

Common bone tumors we treat

Find an orthopedic oncologist

Orthopedic oncology services in New Jersey

Frequently asked questions

Preserving mobility for a young athlete

Bone tumors

Help every step of the way

Related programs

Find an orthopedic oncologist

Orthopedic oncology services in New Jersey

Frequently asked questions

Preserving mobility for a young athlete