The many faces of osteosarcoma

Radiographics. 1997 Sep-Oct;17(5):1205-31. doi: 10.1148/radiographics.17.5.9308111.

Abstract

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant tumor of bone in adolescents and young adults. It accounts for approximately 15% of all primary bone tumors confirmed at biopsy. There are numerous types of primary osteosarcoma, including intramedullary (high grade, telangiectatic, low grade, small cell, osteosarcomatosis, and gnathic), surface (intracortical, parosteal, periosteal, and high-grade surface), and extraskeletal. Osteosarcoma may also occur as a secondary lesion in association with underlying benign conditions. The identification of osteoid matrix formation and aggressive characteristics usually allows prospective radiologic diagnosis of osteosarcoma. As with all bone tumors, differential diagnosis is best assessed with radiographs, whereas staging is performed with computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Understanding and recognition of the variable appearances of the different varieties of osteosarcoma allow improved patient assessment and are vital for optimal clinical management including diagnosis, biopsy, staging, treatment, and follow-up.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Bone Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Bone Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Bone Neoplasms / pathology
  • Child
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnosis
  • Osteosarcoma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Osteosarcoma / pathology
  • Osteosarcoma, Juxtacortical / diagnosis
  • Osteosarcoma, Juxtacortical / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteosarcoma, Juxtacortical / pathology
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed