The brochure Bone tumors contains comprehensive information about this disease. Please note this brochure is currently only available in Dutch. The most important information is provided below.
Causes
Little is known about what causes bone tumors. Something in the DNA was probably damaged during cell division. It is unclear what causes this error. Nor do we know exactly what suddenly starts the unrestrained division of cells.
Symptoms
The main symptom is pain in or around the bone. The pain can be vague, but it can also be so severe that your child cannot sleep. Swelling is also common. The tumor can spread to a muscle or joint, preventing your child from making certain movements.
How is chondrosarcoma diagnosed?
A piece of tumor tissue is removed under anesthesia and then examined under the microscope. Bones and lungs are X-rayed and various scans are performed as well. Bone marrow is extracted under sedation.
Treatment
Children with chondrosarcoma are treated according to a protocol drawn up by national and international experts. Treatment is usually surgery.
Chance of recovery
The chance of recovery for children with chondrosarcoma depends on the location and whether there are any metastases. The tumor's response to treatment is also an important factor. If the tumor is limited to one location, there is an 80-90% chance of recovery. Any metastases lower the chance of recovery.
Questions?
Children with chondrosarcoma are treated in the solid tumors department.