What tests should be done for osteosarcoma

Many young people do not know that osteosarcoma is caused by swelling or pain in their limbs because they do not have a sufficient understanding of osteosarcoma. Therefore, once they find any discomfort in their limbs, they want to go to the hospital as soon as possible to check whether they have osteosarcoma. What are the clinical diagnostic tests for osteosarcoma? Let's learn about what tests should be done for osteosarcoma?

In cases of osteogenic osteosarcoma, elevated levels of bone-derived alkaline phosphatase in the blood can be detected in the early stages, which is related to the osteogenic effect of the tumor. Pathological diagnosis is the basis for treatment. When considering the diagnosis of osteosarcoma, a biopsy is performed and pathological examination confirmation is obtained as soon as possible, which is of great significance for the clear diagnosis and treatment.

1. X-ray

The X-ray manifestation of a typical osteosarcoma is that the bone tissue has the characteristics of new bone formation and bone destruction at the same time. The tumor is mostly located at the metaphysis of the long tubular bone, with unclear edges, destroyed trabeculae, and increased tumor tissue density. After penetrating the cortical bone, the tumor lifts the periosteum, producing the characteristic X-ray sign of the disease - Codman's cuff triangle (Codman-triangle). This phenomenon can be seen in some patients with osteomyelitis and Ewing's sarcoma, and is very typical in osteosarcoma. In the late stage, the shadow of tumor infiltration of soft tissue can be seen, and pathological fractures can be seen in some cases.

2. CT scan and MRI

It is an effective means to determine the nature and extent of bone tumors and the presence or absence of surrounding soft tissue infiltration. It can detect metastatic lesions to the lungs and other organs at an early stage and is a routine item in the clinical examination of osteosarcoma.

3. Nuclear bone scan

It is a commonly used method for early detection and late identification of the presence or absence of metastatic lesions.

The above introduces some diagnostic examination methods for osteosarcoma. We hope that it can help our patients to get a timely diagnosis and respond early, so as to avoid missing the best time for treatment and causing too much harm to osteosarcoma patients.