How Long After Diagnosis Should I be Treated for Osteosarcoma?

The timing of your osteosarcoma treatment plan will depend on a number of unique factors, such as the type and stage of your cancer. Generally speaking, however, treatment is usually recommended shortly after diagnosis. The sooner that the cancer is treated, the more options that you are likely to have, and the better your outcome and quality of life may be as a result.

Treatment for low-grade vs. high-grade osteosarcoma

Some osteosarcomas are classified as “low-grade,” which means that they are slow-growing. Others are considered to be “high-grade,” or more prone to metastasis.

High-grade osteosarcomas may require a more aggressive treatment approach than low-grade osteosarcomas. While both grades can be treated through surgery alone, chemotherapy is frequently recommended to destroy any residual cells that may have metastasized from a high-grade tumor. Other potential treatment options include:

• Radiation therapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapy

A “watch and wait” approach is very seldom used for osteosarcomas. You may wish to get a second opinion before getting started with osteosarcoma treatment, but it’s best to decide on a plan as soon as you feel comfortable moving forward.

Comprehensive osteosarcoma treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center

Moffitt Cancer Center offers the newest and most effective osteosarcoma therapies in a single location, with each patient’s treatment plan fully individualized to his or her needs. To schedule an appointment with an osteosarcoma specialist, call 1-888-663-3488 or submit a new patient registration form online. No referral is required.