Understanding The Role Of Blood Tests For Diagnosing Bone Cancer

Being the most uncommon or rare type of cancer, Bone Cancer arises when cells in the bones grow uncontrollably, forming tumors in the bone tissues. Leaving the condition unattended, ignoring the symptoms, or pushing the diagnosis to tomorrow can have serious consequences. It is because bone cancer can progress rapidly if left unaddressed. Early detection is a key that can lead to effective treatment & improved health outcomes. However, before understanding the diagnostic options, understanding all about bone cancer, its types & symptoms is important. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s be ready to delve into the sea of knowledge with us. Here in this blog, we’ll explore all aspects mentioned above. So, before understanding blood tests for bone cancer, begin with the basics of it.

What Is Bone Cancer & Its Types?

Bone Cancer is a type of cancer that starts due to the abnormal growth of the cells in the bone. It can cause various complications, varying depending on the age, gender, location of the cancer, type & severity. It is further classified into two different types:

1. Primary Bone Cancer: As the name says, Primary Bone Cancer is the one that begins in the bones & spreads uncontrollably to other parts of the body. Being a rare bone cancer, it accounts for 1% of all new cancers diagnosed. Some common types of primary bone cancers are:

• Osteosarcoma
• Ewing's sarcoma
• Chondrosarcoma
• Chordoma
• Fibrosarcoma

Each of its types has distinct characteristics and can affect individuals differently. It is vital to get tested in time for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

2. Secondary Bone Cancer: Another common form of bone cancer is, Secondary Bone Cancer, also called metastatic bone cancer, which spreads in the bone from other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. It can affect any bone but is often linked to the spine, hips, pelvis, etc. Cancers that can spread to bones are:

• Lung Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Melanoma

The earlier the problem is diagnosed, the easier it will be to get control over the spread of the cancer cells and prevent severities to the most extent.

It is clear that early diagnosis is important, but for that understanding the symptoms is crucial so that you can identify them & act accordingly. So, what are those common signs? Let’s find out:

Common Symptoms Of Bone Cancer:

The symptoms can vary from individual to individual. However, the most common signs one may experience include:

• Intense & persistent bone Pain in the area of the tumor, getting worse with activity or time, is a sign that something is not right.
• Moreover, some bone cancers swell the area where the tumor is more likely to be present.
• You may find a noticeable limp or difficulty walking.
• The presence of the tumor can restrict joint movement, causing a limited range of movement.
• It can sometimes lead to anemia in some patients causing constant fatigue or shortness of breath.

The symptoms can vary and can also be related to other conditions. So, instead of making assumptions, getting tested in time is crucial to confirm or rule out the bone cancer risks. Scroll down to the guide below to know the common blood tests for bone cancer that your doctor may suggest depending on your symptoms, family history, risks, and other factors.

A List Of Blood Test For Bone Cancer Includes:

• ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase): Being the most common enzyme found in different tissues, including bone, indicates several bone-related diseases. ALP Blood Test, also called Alkaline Phosphatase Test, is a common blood test that helps measure ALP levels. Elevated ALP levels are usually associated with the presence of bone metastases. These are usually measured & monitored to diagnose the condition, detect disease progression & assess response to the treatment. However, its elevated levels are not always indicative of bone cancer and can be linked with other conditions too. Therefore, getting tested is essential to confirm the cause of your symptoms.
• LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase): Another common blood test that doctors may recommend for bone cancer is LDH Test. It is because high LDH (Lactate Dehydrogenase) is often indicative of cell damage or rapid cell turnover, which is common in various cancer types, including bone cancer. Besides helping to diagnose bone cancer, elevated levels of LDH also serve as a marker of cellular activity. Therefore, it is used with other tests to confirm bone cancer.
• Biopsy: It is a definitive diagnostic test that helps confirm the presence of bone cancer in an individual. Besides diagnosing the presence of bone cancer, biopsies help determine its type, stage & severity to understand its characteristics & guide treatment plans.

No matter the type of diagnosis your doctor may have suggested, getting tested in time is crucial to evaluate your condition and take charge of it before things go out of hand. Remember, early detection & comprehensive evaluation of the disease can lead to better treatment & effective management of bone cancer. And for accurate diagnosis, Redcliffe Labs is your trusted diagnostic partner that you can count on. We offer a comprehensive range of blood tests for bone cancer at competitive market rates. So, book a test and get tested with us from the comfort of your home and obtain reports in no time.