Bone tumors

Abstract

In old patients metastases are by far the most frequent lesion. Their detection must be planned carefully and only when the knowledge that is obtained will have therapeutic consequences. Bone scintigraphy, radiographs, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) all have specific uses and indications. The treatment of some primary bone tumors has been completely transformed by chemotherapy but mainly in young patients. At the same time, surgery has changed and drastic measures, such as amputation, are much rarer. The perfect local staging allows the best choice of indications as well as evaluation of neoadjuvant treatment. Plain film remains the first indispensable diagnostic step, especially for primary tumors. CT improves diagnostic capability, and MRI is the best technique for local staging. PET can evaluate new criteria, but it is still being evaluated.