A narrative review on the characteristics and treatment of benign and malignant bone tumors

Abstract

Bone tumors, including benign and malignant lesions, are not metastatic; however, they may appear in any part of the body skeleton. Distal femur and proximal tibia (around the knee joint) are the most prevalent sites. Most benign bone tumors are cartilaginous tumors, known as osteochondromas. Based on the reports, benign bone tumors are more frequent than primary malignant ones. Malignant bone tumor is another type of bone tumor, which usually occurs within the first years of life. As a result, it can considerably affect the lives of patients and their families. These tumors consist of osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and Ewing's sarcoma. This article discusses the epidemiology, characteristics, and treatment of the most important types of benign and malignant bone tumors. These data will be useful to the physicians and other health workers to better understand the conditions of bone tumors and their management.