Mesothelioma Bone Metastasis
As any type of cancer progresses, it is common for it to grow beyond the initial tumor site. Some doctors report that as many as half of all mesothelioma patients show this cancer spread, called metastasis. Metastasis commonly affects bones in cancer patients, a condition less frequently found in mesothelioma patients. There is some disagreement as to the frequency of "bone mets," with some doctors stating that it is very rare in mesothelioma patients and others claiming it occurs in about one-third of mesothelioma cases.
Mesothelioma bone metastases can be difficult to diagnose in a timely manner, and it often goes unnoticed until autopsy. However, doctors strive to find it since, if it goes untreated, it can interrupt vital bone processes. Bones may not be able to carry out functions such as: structurally supporting the body, storing and releasing minerals, and making and storing blood cells. This can negatively impact life span. Still, if bone metastasis is found early, it can be treated in a variety of ways. Radiation therapy and surgery are common treatments that may reverse its effects.
Patients can learn more about bone metastasis and other potential complications of mesothelioma to know the warning signs. The Mesothelioma Center offers a complimentary informational packet about symptoms and treatments. Request your free packet by completing the form here.
Symptoms of Bone Metastasis
Bone metastasis causes a host of problems, many of which stem from the weakened state of the bones. Cancer patients with bone metastases commonly experience bone pain, fractures or spinal cord compression. One 71-year-old pleural mesothelioma patient developed lower back pain, another common symptom, as a result of spinal cord compression.
Other symptoms may be brought on when patients with bone metastases undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy. These treatments can further damage bones that are already compromised. When this occurs, symptoms may include anemia, fatigue, infections and other whole-body problems.
Diagnosing Bone Metastasis
If mesothelioma bone metastasis is suspected in a patient, doctors can run a number of tests to form an accurate diagnosis. Testing starts with a blood or urine sample, which may show abnormalities. For example, a high level of calcium in a blood sample may indicate bone metastasis.
Doctors may then take X-rays, which can show damaged areas in the bone. X-rays are rarely enough on their own, because they show limited, two-dimensional pictures. Instead, X-rays are often used with other imaging tests such as CAT scans or MRIs, which can create more accurate pictures. The 71-year old mesothelioma patient, for example, had an X-ray followed by an MRI. The X-ray did not show any sign of bone metastasis, but doctors accurately diagnosed his metastasis using the MRI results.
The final stage of the diagnostic process involves a bone marrow aspiration or a biopsy. Either one of these procedures gives doctors a sample of bone marrow to test. In addition to confirming the bone mets diagnosis, an aspiration or biopsy can give information about how much the cancer has spread. This is an important piece of information which can help shape a treatment regimen.
Treating Bone Metastasis
Treatment for mesothelioma bone metastasis aims to kill or remove cancerous cells within the bone. Depending on the patient, treatment may include radiation therapy, radiopharmaceutical therapy or surgery.
- Radiation therapy can be used on bone metastasis by aiming high-energy radiation at the cancerous bones. Like typical radiation therapy, its goal is to ease pain and kill cancer cells.
- Radiopharmaceutical therapy is similar to radiation therapy, but it uses certain drugs to help target cancer cells.
- Surgery may be an option to remover cancer growth from bones. During surgery, the bones may be reinforced with screws or rods to prevent potential fractures.
Effect of Bone Metastasis on Mesothelioma Prognosis
Few mesothelioma patients have been diagnosed with bone metastasis, so little is known of its effects on prognosis. However, metastasis of any kind indicates a more widespread cancer. Evidence suggests that any type of metastasis therefore is associated with a shorter life span.
A timely diagnosis and proper treatment can help extend life span by reversing the effects of bone metastasis. Speak with a mesothelioma specialist to learn more about treatment options that may improve your prognosis. Use the Mesothelioma Center's free Doctor Match program to find an experienced physician near you.
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Last Modified Thursday, May 10th, 2012 | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy |
The information provided by The Mesothelioma Center is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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