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Bone Metastasis


About this topic


Cancer happens when normal cells in the body grow out of control. Cancer starts in one part or organ of the body. Sometimes, it spreads or moves to some other part. The medical name for this is metastasis. The most common site for cancer to spread to is the bone. Bone metastasis may be the first sign of cancer. It may also happen years after a cancer diagnosis. ‚  
Any bone in the body may be affected by metastasis. The most common bones are the spine, pelvis, ribs, leg bones, and skull. Bone metastasis harms the bone. This leads to other signs such as lack of strength or pain. ‚  

What are the causes?


Bone metastasis happens when the cancer spreads from the first site into the bones. ‚  

What are the main signs?


  • Pain in the bone
  • Broken bones
  • Urinary and bowel incontinence
  • Lack of strength in the legs
  • Raised calcium levels in the blood that cause upset stomach, throwing up, and confusion

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


Your doctor may do an exam and take your history. The doctor will ask about your signs. You may also need to have tests like: ‚  
  • X-ray
  • Bone scan
  • MRI or CT scan
  • PET scan

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Bone metastases are treated in a number of ways. They may include surgery, radiation, or drugs called chemo. ‚  
You may need surgery to fix a broken bone. The doctor may need to use metal plates or screws to make the bone stable. Other times, the doctor may need to use special cement to repair a broken bone. ‚  

What lifestyle changes are needed?


  • Eat healthy foods. Good eating habits are very important if you have cancer. It can help your body stay strong. Talk to a dietician about good foods to eat when you are not feeling well.
  • Drink at least 6 to 8 glasses of fluids each day. Try drinking small amounts throughout the day.
  • Stay active. Exercise and being active can give you more energy. It can also help keep your body strong. Talk to your doctor about the best exercises for you.
  • Rest is of great value. Your activity level will depend on your procedure or treatment. Talk to your doctor about the right amount of activity for you.

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Help with pain
  • Make your bones stronger
  • Slow bone damage
  • Fight cancer cells
  • Block hormones that make cancer cells grow

Will there be any other care needed?


Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. You may need more blood work, tests, or treatment. ‚  

Where can I learn more?


American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ‚  
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=A00093 ‚  
American Cancer Society ‚  
http://www.cancer.org/treatment/understandingyourdiagnosis/bonemetastasis/bone-metastasis-what-is-bone-metastisis ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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