Other bone disorders, like arthritis and osteoporosis, have symptoms similar to that of bone metastasis. Some patients may have these disorders prior to having their cancer spread to the bone.
Bone metastasis can be diagnosed using laboratory tests, radiographic examinations, CAT scans, MRI and biopsy
Laboratory Tests
Laboratory tests include the sampling of blood, urine, or other substances in the body. The results of these tests can be useful in a number of ways. Doctors can monitor a patient's disease over time and get an idea of the patient's response to medication(s) by drawing labs. If necessary, lab results can also help your doctor to make changes in your current course of treatment.
The most common symptom of bone metastasis is pain. Other symptoms are bone fractures, spinal cord compression and anemia.
Pain
Pain is usually the first symptom patients notice. It's most often felt at the site of the metastasis, which is referred to as localized pain. There are also cases where patients experience pain in areas surrounding the metastasis.
At the U-M Rogel Cancer Center, treatment of bone metastasis takes place in the clinic where the originating cancer is treated. For example, if prostate cancer has metastasized into the bone, it is treated in the Urologic Oncology Clinic. Call the Cancer AnswerLine™ at 800-865-1125. for help finding the clinic you need. NOTE: Cancers of the spine are treated by our Spine Oncology Program.
Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN) are pre-cancerous cells found in the vagina, or the passage leading from the vulva to the uterus in women.
Early detection and treatment of precancerous cells can prevent them from becoming cancerous. Otherwise, the abnormal cells can become cancer and spread to other parts of the body.
There are a number of resources available to our patients with gynecologic cancers. These resources include educational information as well as support services and resources.
Managing the Side Effects of Gynecologic Cancer Treatment
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