Osteosarcoma

Osteosarcoma is the most common bone tumor of children and adolescents. The peak incidence of the disease is in the 15 to 19 year age group. The disease is more commonly seen in males than females. While several factors, including exposure to radiation, genetic disorders such as retinoblastoma, and high rate of bone growth, have been associated with osteosarcoma, in most cases no definite etiology can be established. Osteosarcoma usually originates in the metaphyseal region of long bones and extends through the cortex, causing varying degrees of bone destruction and expansion of periosteum. The radiographic appearance caused by this process is often referred to as "sun burst" sign. Positive diagnosis of osteosarcoma is made by histopathology. The histopathological classification of osteosarcoma can also predict the degree of aggressive behavior of this tumor and thus has prognostic significance. Surgery, including amputation or limb-salvage procedure, is the mainstay of treatment of osteosarcoma. It is now unequivocally established that adjuvant chemotherapy will prolong the survival of patients with this disease. Chemotherapy agents often used include platinum derivates, methotrexate, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, actinomycin D, bleomycin and DTIC. Depending on surgical decision, these agents can be used prior to or after the operation. Immediate fitting with prosthesis and provision of appropriate medical and psychological support in the care of these patients is essential.