Cancer is a result of an assembly of cells that divide past normality, invade, and sometimes spread to other areas in the body. Cancers normally form a tumor, however, some do not. Leukemia is an example of a cancer that does not. Diagnosis, treatment, study and the prevention of cancer, is the branch of medicine referred to as Oncology.
Cancer and the Legs
Bone cancer occurs in the bones of the legs. It may be a primary cancer (one that originates in the leg/s) or a secondary cancer (one that is spread from another part of the body or an organ in the body to the bone/s of the leg/s). The three most common forms of bone cancer are Osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing's tumor. Leg pain, swelling and possible growths may occur with cancer in the legs, and are the most common symptoms experienced with the disease.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer and the sixth most common in children. Osteosarcoma develops from ostoblasts. These are the cells that make growing bone. The most common symptom is pain or swelling in the leg or arm.
Ewing's Tumor
Ewing's tumor is a rare childhood disease. There are three different types of Ewing's tumor. The first, Ewing sarcoma of bone, which is the most common in children, Extraosseous Ewing tumor, which starts in the soft tissues around the bone, and Peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor, which starts in the bone or soft tissues. The most common sites for Ewing's tumor is the chest, legs, pelvis and middle of the long bones.
Chondrosarcoma
Chondrosarcoma is a cancer affecting cartilage cells. According to the Mayo Clinic online, it is said to be the second most common type of bone cancer.. Chondrosarcoma develops in the arms, legs, or pelvis of adults ages 50 to 70.
Cancer Symptoms
Symptoms of cancer include weight loss and fatigue. When cancer spreads to internal organs additional symptoms may occur, such as trouble breathing if it spreads to the lungs. Bone swelling and pain are more often due to other condition than cancer, such as arthritis and injuries. However, if the condition persists, it is necessary to schedule a visit with your physician.
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