Musculoskeletal cancers affect the bones and soft tissues. Their symptoms can be subtle and easily attributed to injury or age, so they can go undiagnosed. It’s important to see a doctor if you think you may have musculoskeletal cancer symptoms. WMCHealth is the only comprehensive musculoskeletal oncology program in the region. Our leading team of oncologists can help.
What Is Musculoskeletal Cancer?
Musculoskeletal cancers can affect bones and tissue throughout the body. While the exact cause of most musculoskeletal cancers is unknown, there could be several risk factors, including:
- Previous radiation therapy
- Certain genetic diseases
- Some inherited conditions
Musculoskeletal cancers are complex. The specialists at WMCHealth are highly experienced in treatment options. The sarcoma care center focuses on musculoskeletal oncology, bringing together a comprehensive team of experts.
Musculoskeletal Cancer Symptoms
One of the challenges of recognizing musculoskeletal cancers is the similarity of symptoms to non-cancerous conditions. Some symptoms include:
- Pain (sudden or gradual) in the affected region
- Swelling and tenderness
- A noticeable lump or a fractured bone without a significant injury
Types of Musculoskeletal Cancer
The musculoskeletal system is an intricate web of tissues, and the cancers that affect these areas are just as varied.
- Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer and affects mostly children and young adults.
- Chondrosarcoma affects the cartilage of older adults.
- Soft tissue sarcomas can form in the muscle, fat, fibrous tissue, blood vessels or other supporting tissue and can occur anywhere in the body.
Innovative Services for Musculoskeletal Cancers at WMCHealth
The team at the comprehensive sarcoma center at WMCHealth tailors the treatment approach to the needs of the individual patient, whether adult or child. Utilizing a variety of combined treatment modalities, the team seeks to improve prognosis and quality of life before and after treatment.
Diagnosing Musculoskeletal Cancers
Accurately diagnosing musculoskeletal cancers starts with recognizing the symptoms and consulting a healthcare provider. A thorough diagnostic process is crucial to determining the type and stage of the cancer.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT (computed tomography) scans, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scans, and PET (positron emission tomography) scans are used in the initial stages to detect the presence, size, and location of a tumor.
- Biopsy: During a biopsy, a small sample of the tumor is removed and examined to determine whether cancer is present.
- Staging: Cancer staging involves additional tests to determine the extent of the cancer and if it has spread. Staging guides the doctor in discussing treatment options with the patient.
Treatment for Musculoskeletal Cancers
Treatment for musculoskeletal cancers is complex and often multidisciplinary, involving a team of specialists such as medical oncologists, orthopedic surgeons, and radiation oncologists.
Surgery
Surgical resection, or the removal of the tumor, is the most common treatment for musculoskeletal cancers.
Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or to eliminate any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemo may be used with surgery, especially in cancers that are more likely to spread, such as osteosarcoma. Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells throughout the body and is often used as a systemic treatment.
Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to identify and attack cancer cells more precisely. It includes immunotherapy, which utilizes the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
Rehabilitation
Physical therapy is often recommended to help patients restore their physical function, mobility, and strength after treatment. Occupational therapy can help patients perform daily activities. Psychological and emotional support are also part of the rehab process.
Why Choose WMCHealth for Musculoskeletal Cancer Treatment?
As the Hudson Valley’s only comprehensive center for musculoskeletal cancers, WMCHealth offers a degree of care in New York that is not found elsewhere in the region, with experts ready to understand and treat this complicated disease.
Musculoskeletal Oncology
Learn about the musculoskeletal oncology program at WMCHealth.