Bone tumors

Abstract

Bone tumors and tumor-like conditions are uncommon in childhood and adolescence. They are difficult to manage because of their variable nature and accurate diagnosis cannot always be based on imaging appearance alone. However, a specific combination of clinical, biological, and radiological signs may suggest and sometimes confirm whether they will behave in an aggressive, latent, or indeterminate manner. Sometimes the radiological signs are easily recognized and many lesions require neither biopsy nor treatment. For others, however, management by clinicians, radiologists, and pathologists working as a multidisciplinary team in a specialized unit is necessary. It is important to bear in mind that children and adolescents are not just small adults. The lesions which affect them, the way they behave biologically, and the way they should be treated can be radically different. © Springer-Verlag London Limited 2010.