Bone cancer is a rare type of cancer that can begin in any bone in the body, but it most commonly affects the pelvis or the long bones in the arms and legs. The most common symptom of bone cancer is bone pain, which usually begins with a feeling of tenderness in the affected bone and gradually progresses to a persistent ache or an ache that comes and goes, which continues at night and when resting. Other symptoms of bone cancer include:
- Swelling and redness (inflammation) over a bone, which can make movement difficult if the affected bone is near a joint.
- A noticeable lump over a bone.
- A weak bone that breaks (fractures) more easily than normal.
- Problems moving around – for example, walking with a limp.
Less common symptoms can include a high temperature, unexplained weight loss, and feeling extra tired (fatigue) . If you or your child are experiencing persistent, severe, or worsening bone pain, it is important to visit a doctor for further investigation, although it is highly unlikely to be the result of bone cancer.
