Histopathology of<unk> , showing tumor cells with high nuclear pleomorphism, but relatively less so in cells entrapped in neoplastic bone matrix (appearing pink on this H&E stained slide). X-rays is the initial imaging of choice to diagnose<unk> . Some characteristics of<unk>  on X-rays are sunburst appearance and Codman triangle (elevation of bony cortex by the tumour that caused new bone formation). CT scan is helpful in defining the bony anatomy, the intergrity of the bony cortex, detecting pathologic fracture, and assessing ossification (laying of new bone materials) and calcification of the cartilage. On the other hand, soft tissue and medullary cavity is better imaged by MRI scan. Most times, the early signs of<unk>  are caught on X-rays taken during routine dental check-ups.<unk>  frequently develops in the mandible (lower jaw); accordingly, dentists are trained to look for signs that may suggest<unk> . Even though radiographic findings for this cancer vary greatly, one usually sees a symmetrical widening of the periodontal ligament space. A dentist who has reason to suspect<unk>  or another underlying disorder would then refer the patient to an Oral & Maxillofacial surgeon for biopsy. A biopsy of suspected<unk>  outside of the facial region should be performed by a qualified orthopedic oncologist. The American Cancer Society states: "Probably in no other cancer is it as important to perform this procedure properly. An improperly performed biopsy may make it difficult to save the affected limb from amputation." It may also metastasise to the lungs, mainly appearing on the chest X-ray as solitary or multiple round nodules most common at the lower regions. Variants * Conventional: osteoblastic, chondroblastic, fibroblastic OS * Telangiectatic OS * Small cell OS * Low-grade central OS * Periosteal OS * Paraosteal OS * Secondary OS * High-grade surface OS * Extraskeletal OS
Osteosarcoma
Ewing's sarcoma
Osteoblastoma
Osteoma
Osteochondroma
Synovial sarcoma
Osteochondrosis
Bone cyst