BASIC FACTS
What is the most common bone cancer in children?
what is Osteosarcoma
What is the most common first symptom?
What is bone pain?
What type of surgery removes the tumor but keeps the limb?
Limb-sparing surgery
What kind of pain scale might you use for a 6-year-old?
FACES scale
What age group is most affected by osteosarcoma?
10-20 years old
What imaging test shows tumor size and soft tissue involvement?
MRI
Name one chemotherapy drug used for osteosarcoma.
Methotrexate, Cisplatin, or Doxorubicin
After surgery, what therapy helps the child regain movement?
Physical therapy
Is osteosarcoma more common in boys or girls?
Boys
What lab may be elevated with tumor activity?
Alkaline phosphatase
Why is a chest CT done in osteosarcoma patients?
To check for lung spread
What’s one thing nurses watch for after chemo?
Infection, pain, or kidney issues
Which bone is most commonly affected?
Distal femur
What test confirms the cancer type?
Bone biopsy
What organ do we monitor because of methotrexate?
Kidneys
Why is emotional support important in osteosarcoma care?
Body image changes, fear, or depression
Name one genetic condition that increases the risk.
Retinoblastoma or Li-Fraumeni syndrome
Which organ is most often affected by metastasis?
Lungs
What kind of surgery may be done if limb-sparing is not possible?
Amputation
What teaching should you give about follow-up care?
Importance of scans to check for recurrence