Authors
Farrell, CaroleAffiliation
The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Road, Withington, Manchester, M20 9BX, UKIssue Date
2013
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Cancer cells from a primary tumour can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. Bone metastases are common in multiple myeloma, where 70-80% of patients have bone metastases at diagnosis. They are also a common feature in solid tumours such as breast, lung, prostate, thyroid and renal carcinomas. The median survival in patients with bone metastases from breast cancer is 24 months; 20% of patients survive for 5 years or more. Pain is the most common symptom of bone metastases, which can often be severe and difficult to control. This article will discuss normal bone physiology and explain the changes that occur when cancer cells spread to bone. It will outline the signs and symptoms of bone metastases and discuss patient assessment, symptom management and treatment options, including different bisphosphonates. The physical and psychological impact of bone metastases should not be underestimated and nurses are well placed to improve the quality of life of patients.Citation
Bone metastases: assessment, management and treatment options. 2013, 22 (10):S4-S11 Br J NursJournal
British Journal of NursingPubMed ID
23752365Type
ArticleLanguage
enCollections
Related articles
- The cost of treatment of skeletal-related events in patients with bone metastases from lung cancer.
- Authors: Delea T, Langer C, McKiernan J, Liss M, Edelsberg J, Brandman J, Sung J, Raut M, Oster G
- Issue date: 2004
- Advances in the treatment of bone metastases.
- Authors: Reich CD
- Issue date: 2003 Nov-Dec
- The multidisciplinary approach to bone metastases.
- Authors: Blum RH, Novetsky D, Shasha D, Fleishman S
- Issue date: 2003 Jun
- Bone metastases, general and clinical issues.
- Authors: Greco C, Forte L, Erba P, Mariani G
- Issue date: 2011 Aug
- Metastatic bone disease and tumour-induced hypercalcaemia: treatment options.
- Authors: Heatley S
- Issue date: 2004 Jan