If Cancer Spreads to the Bones

If Cancer Spreads to the BonesIf cancer spreads to the bone from the original cancer site it is called bone metastasis or bone mets.

Bone is the third most frequent site for cancer to spread. Nearly all types of cancer can spread (metastasize) to the bones.  But some types of cancer are particularly likely to spread to bone, including breast cancer, kidney cancer, lung cancer, melanoma, ovarian cancer, and prostate cancer.

Bone metastasis can occur in any bone but more commonly occurs in the spine, pelvis and thigh. Bone metastasis may be the first sign that you have cancer, or bone metastasis may occur years after cancer treatment.

Bone metastasis can cause pain and broken bones. Treatments can help reduce pain and other symptoms of bone metastases.

MULTIDISCIPLINARY TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR BONE METASTASES 

Treatment of bone metastases often depends on the location and the source of tumor cells. Treatments can include radiation, medication, interventional procedures, and surgery. A multidisciplinary treatment team approach is needed.