The Many Faces of Osteosarcoma

Abstract Introduction Primary Intramedullary Osteosarcoma

Surface Osteosarcoma Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma Secondary Osteosarcoma

Conclusions Source Information References

Conclusions

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary malignant bone tumor in children. Its radiologic appearances vary over a wide spectrum. We have reviewed the radiologic and pathologic features of the various types of primary osteosarcoma, including intramedullary (high-grade, telangiectatic, low-grade, small cell, osteosarcomatosis, and gnathic), surface (intracortical, parosteal, periosteal, and high-grade surface), extraskeletal, and secondary lesions. The radiographic appearances of these lesions are often characteristic and suggestive of the specific diagnosis. Perhaps more important, additional imaging modalities, including bone scintigraphy, CT, and MR imaging, provide vital information for preoperative staging in planning surgical management. Radiologic examination also allows evaluation of tumor response to chemotherapy, identification of metastatic disease, and postoperative evaluation of recurrent neoplasm, all of which have important prognostic implications. Recognition of these imaging features is an important guide to our clinical colleagues throughout the often difficult and complex treatment of patients with osteosarcoma and results in improved clinical outcome.

Acknowledgments: The authors gratefully thank Danielle M. Carerra, MA, and Phyllis M. Hickey, MA, for the preparation of the manuscript and all the past, present, and future attendees of the radiologic pathology course at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology for providing materials that make such projects possible.

Abstract Introduction Primary Intramedullary Osteosarcoma

Surface Osteosarcoma Extraskeletal Osteosarcoma Secondary Osteosarcoma

Conclusions Source Information References