What to Know about Bone Metastasis

Sometimes, cancer cells in the breast can invade surrounding tissue and even organs deep within such as the bone, causing bone metastasis. Bone metastasis can occur in any bones of the body. But the ones in the spine, pelvis, and thigh are particularly prone to bone metastasis.

Bone metastasis

People with bone metastasis may exhibit no sign of the disease. However, if the symptoms do emerge, they are usually:

Pain in the bone;

Broken bones;

Involuntary leakage of the urine and stool;

Weakness in the legs or arms;

Nausea, vomiting, constipation and confusion due to an elevated level of calcium in the bloodstream.

If you experience any of the warning signs above, you need to seek medical attention, especially if you have suffered from breast cancer in the past.

Scientists believe bone metastasis is caused by the cancer cells spreading from its point of origin to the bone and multiply. However, the reason why they spread is not entirely clear. Almost any kind of cancer can lead to bone metastasis. Breast cancer is just only one common risk factor. Other cancers that are likely to put you at risk of bone metastasis are kidney cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer and lymphoma.

Tests for bone metastasis

Bone metastasis can be diagnosed using imaging tests such as:

X-ray;

Bone scan;

CT scan;

MRI;

PET.

Treatment for bone metastasis

Depending on how advanced your bone metastasis is, your doctor will recommend the best treatment for you. Available options include:

Medication

Bone-building medications, which is the drugs used to treat people with bone-thinning conditions. They will help strengthen the bones and reduce the dependence on painkillers. Bone-building medications can be taken either orally or through injections. Though injections are considered more effective, they bring the same side effects as oral administration, including bone pain, kidney problems and elevated risk of jawbone deterioration. Since bone metastasis results from cancer cells traveling from the breast, you will need chemotherapy to deal with them. Side effects vary according to the specific drugs you are given. Pain medications are often prescribed to relieve the pain you endure during treatments.

Surgery

In some cases, surgical procedures will be recommended to stabilize the affected bone and prevent them from breaking apart. Weak bones can be strengthened with supporting devices such as plates, screws, and bone cement.

Bone metastasis has no cure. Fortunately, it can be managed with proper medical care and physical therapy. Even though the bone damage cannot be reversed, treatments will mitigate your pain and help you go on with your life.