Bone cancer misdiagnosis

Bone cancer diagnosis

Bone cancer is a rare type of cancer which begins in the bones and can often be referred to as primary bone cancer.

Whilst it can affect any bone, it is more common in the arms and legs and the main symptoms frequently include persistent bone pain or a lump, swelling or redness over a bone. 

The main types of bone cancer are:

Chondrosarcoma

This is usually a slow growing tumour which affects the cartilage cells that covers the end of the bones.It is more common in people aged over 40 and slightly more common in men than women.

Osteosarcoma

This is a type of bone cancer which is more commonly diagnosed in teenagers and young people but it can affect older adults.It mostly affects the knee, thigh bone, shin bone and upper arm.

Ewing Sarcoma

It mainly affects children and young people and tends to affect the legs, pelvis, arms and ribs.It may be linked to rapid bone growth.

How is bone cancer usually diagnosed?

Ordinarily, you will first go to your GP to complain of symptoms and if they suspect bone cancer then they should refer you for an x-ray.  If the x-ray shows some abnormalities then you may be referred for a biopsy, MRI scan, CT scan or a Bone scan.  You may also be referred to an Orthopaedic surgeon and/or an Oncologist.

The investigations will reveal what stage the cancer is at and what treatment options are available to you.  If diagnosed at stages 1 or 2, there is a good chance that the cancer can be cured.  If you are diagnosed when the cancer has reached stage 3, the cancer will have spread to other parts of your body and the chances of a cure diminish.

How is bone cancer treated?

Surgery to remove the infected bone is usually the most frequent treatment for bone cancer.  Depending on the location and size of the cancer, part of the bone can be removed or in 1 in 10 cases, surgery will lead to an amputation.

You may also require chemotherapy or radiotherapy, either before or after the surgery.

There is also a medication for those diagnosed with osteosarcoma, namely Mifamurtide, which stimulates cells aimed at killing the cancerous cells.

If you would like guidance on a possible bone cancer misdiagnosis claim call us on 0161 696 6165 and speak to a member of our clinical negligence team to discuss your claim, alternatively please complete our enquiry form and we will contact you directly.