What Are Signs and Symptoms of Osteosarcoma?

Sometimes, people with osteosarcoma do not have any symptoms. In other cases, their symptoms are similar to those of other medical conditions. Osteosarcoma can cause any of the signs and symptoms listed below.

• Fractures - Osteosarcoma can weaken the bone where it starts and this sometimes, though not often, makes the bone break. About one-third of telangiectatic osteosarcomas, which are rare, cause a fracture at the tumor site.
• Lump - Depending on where the tumor is, you might be able to feel a lump.
• Pain - The most common symptom of osteosarcoma is pain in the bone where the cancer has started. At first, the pain is not constant and it might be worse at night. The pain increases when you are active. If it is in your leg, it might make you limp. If the pain is in your arm, you might have trouble lifting heavy objects. If the tumor is in the pelvis or the base of the spine, it can cause back pain or loss of bowel or bladder control. The pain tends to get worse over time.
• Swelling or stiffness - Unusual swelling or stiffness in the joints can be a sign of osteosarcoma.