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Bone metastasis or "bone mets" occurs when cancer cells from the primary tumor relocate to the
bone. Prostate, breast, and lung cancers are most likely to spread to the bone. However, other cancers are not
excluded.
At the U-M Comprehensive 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.
What follows are links to information related to bone metastasis:
General information
What you need to know about bone metastasis, cancer, a glossary the future of bone metastasis
understanding and treatment and a frequently asked questions page.
Symptoms
Bone metastasis symptoms vary among patients. In fact, some patients do not have any symptoms at all.
Sometimes the symptoms of bone metastasis are what cause a patient to first visit the doctor.
The most common symptoms are bone pain, bone fracture, and spinal cord compression. We have listed
other symptoms that may be experienced as well.
Diagnosis
An important part of diagnosis for bone metastases includes a review of the patient's past medical history,
family history, and a physical exam. The doctor can use this information along with various testing procedures
to find the cause of the patient's symptoms. Laboratory tests, radiographic examinations, bone scans, CAT
scans, MRIs, and/or bone marrow aspiration and biopsies are helpful tools in the process of diagnosis.
Treatment
Bone metastases can be managed. The goals of any treatment are to lessen pain, prevent further bone breakdown,
and restore function to patients with bone metastasis. This is done, in part, by strengthening the bone and
by reducing the risk of fractures. Ultimately, treatment is intended to improve the patient's quality of life.
It is best to be informed of all of your options.
Other Bone Disorders
The symptoms for bone metastasis and other bone and joint disorders may be similar. Diagnosing bone metastasis
in patients with arthritis or osteoporosis can be especially challenging. It is best to tell your doctor if
you have a personal or family history of any of these bone disorders.
Bone Metastasis Glossary
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