Signs and Symptoms of Osteosarcoma

Medically reviewed by Gagandeep Brar, MDMedically reviewed by Gagandeep Brar, MD

Osteosarcoma is a type of cancer that starts in the cells that form bones and most commonly occurs in the long bones of the body, such as the arms and legs. While it usually affects teenagers and people over age 60, osteosarcoma can occur at any age. This is the most common type of bone cancer, which causes symptoms like bone pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion.

Symptoms can develop slowly, making them easy to mistake for other pains and injuries. That's why knowing the warning signs is so important.

Bone Pain

One of the most common symptoms of osteosarcoma is bone pain that lasts several weeks. This pain often begins as mild and may come and go. It usually starts in the area where the tumor is located. For example, if the osteosarcoma is in the thigh, the pain will likely occur in that leg, possibly near the knee. The pain might be worse at night or after physical activity.

You may be tempted to dismiss bone pain as just soreness from physical activity or an injury, especially in active teens and young adults. You may even assume the pain is simply growing pains. However, osteosarcoma pain typically gets worse or more constant over time. The most common sites for osteosarcoma tumors and their related bone pain are the bones around the knee and the upper arm bone.

Lump or Swelling

Swelling near the site of the tumor is another possible symptom of osteosarcoma. As the tumor grows, it can cause the surrounding tissue to swell. This swelling may not be noticeable at first, but as the tumor increases in size, the area might look larger or feel different when you touch it.

In some cases, a lump or mass may develop near the tumor. This lump might be painful, but not always. The skin over the lump can feel warm to the touch, and it may even appear red or irritated. The lump might look like a cyst or another non-cancerous growth, which is why it’s important to have any unusual swelling checked by a healthcare provider.

Limited Range of Motion

Over time, bone pain can become more constant and severe, making it difficult to move the affected limb. As the bone cancer advances, osteosarcoma can begin to limit mobility and range of motion. For example, lifting things may become harder if the tumor is in the upper arm. If the tumor is in the leg, you may have trouble walking or standing.

Bone Fractures

Fractures are a less common symptom of osteosarcoma but can still occur. Although all types of osteosarcoma tumors weaken the bone they are in, fractures typically occur only with certain types of tumors that severely weaken the bone. About 12% of people with osteosarcoma have a fracture at the time of diagnosis, and these fractures can often cause significant pain and limited movement.

Metastasis Symptoms

When osteosarcoma metastasizes (spreads) to other body parts, it spreads to the lungs first 80% of the time. Spreading to the lungs may result in respiratory symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.

Osteosarcoma also commonly spreads to other bones or other parts of the same bone as the original tumor, which can lead to more severe bone pain. When caught early, advanced symptoms don't always occur. However, metastasis is more likely in adults with osteosarcoma over the age of 60.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of osteosarcoma, such as persistent bone pain, swelling, or limited movement, contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible. While these symptoms can stem from conditions other than osteosarcoma, only a healthcare provider can determine the exact cause and offer treatment options if needed.

You should see a healthcare provider immediately if:

• You have bone pain that is severe, constant, or worsening over time

• There is noticeable swelling or a lump near a bone

• The affected area becomes difficult to move or use

• A bone fracture occurs with no known injury or trauma

• One of the symptoms above occurs alongside respiratory symptoms

Getting tested for or receiving a diagnosis of cancer can be a scary experience. However, for osteosarcoma in particular, some research indicates that bone cancer survival outcomes are generally the same regardless of how long symptoms lasted before diagnosis.

This doesn't mean you should delay diagnosis. Always seek medical attention for any symptoms that are severe or persistent. Still, knowing this might help ease some anxiety.

Questions To Ask Your Provider

If you are concerned about osteosarcoma in yourself or a loved one, ask your healthcare provider these questions during your appointment:

• Could my bone pain be a sign of osteosarcoma or another type of bone cancer?

• What types of tests will you run to find out whether osteosarcoma is what’s causing my symptoms?

• What type of osteosarcoma tumor do I have?

• Would I need chemotherapy or surgery to treat osteosarcoma?

• What treatment options are currently available if I receive a diagnosis?

A Quick Review

Osteosarcoma is a type of cancer that grows in your bone cells. While it's a rare type of cancer, it's the most common type of bone cancer and can cause a variety of symptoms like bone pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion.

These symptoms can often mimic signs of other conditions, so it's important to seek care for your symptoms even if you don't think they're serious. Getting a diagnosis is the first step in starting treatment and feeling better.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the survival rate of osteosarcoma?

The five-year overall relative survival rate for osteosarcoma is an estimated 59%. This means that people with this cancer are about 59% as likely as the general population to live for the next five years.

Adults over the age of 60 have lower survival rates than younger people because older adults have a higher risk of their cancer spreading to other parts of the body.

Where does osteosarcoma spread first?

When osteosarcoma spreads from the primary site of a bone, it most often spreads to the lungs. The second most common site it can spread to is other bones or other parts of the original bone. However, osteosarcoma can spread to any other part of the body, including the brain and other organs.

What age is osteosarcoma most common?

Osteosarcoma is most common in teenagers. This is because they are in a period of rapid bone growth. The average age of people when they receive an osteosarcoma diagnosis is 15. However, adults over 60 also have a high risk of developing this type of bone cancer.

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