Tumors of the musculoskeletal system can originate in bone or soft tissues, such as muscle and cartilage. Both benign and malignant tumors can arise from any soft tissue, such as muscle, or any bones of the arms, legs, pelvis, shoulder or trunk. If the tumors are malignant, meaning they are cancerous, they are called "sarcomas." Compared to tumors at other sites, such as the breast, prostate, kidney or lung, tumors of the bones and soft tissues are relatively rare. Musculoskeletal tumors are diagnosed with imaging and sometimes a biopsy of the tissue. Treatment for cancerous tumors can involve surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
On the next Mayo Clinic Radio program, Dr. Peter Rose, division chair of Orthopedic Oncology at Mayo Clinic, will discuss tumors of the musculoskeletal system. Also on the program, Dr. Leo Maguire, a Mayo Clinic ophthalmologist, will explain how laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) eye surgery can correct common vision problems. And Dr. Erica Loomis, a Mayo Clinic trauma and critical care specialist, will discuss treatment for appendicitis.
