The methods used to treat bone cancer are very powerful. It is hard to limit the effects of treatment so that only cancer cells are destroyed; healthy tissue may also be damaged. That is why treatment often causes side effects. Side effects depend on the type of treatment and on the part of the body being treated.

Surgery for cancer of the bone is a major operation. The area must be carefully watched for infection. Rehabilitation is an important part of post-surgery treatment.

The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the drugs that are given. In addition, each person reacts differently. Chemotherapy affects rapidly growing cells, such as blood-forming cells and those that line the digestive tract. As a result, patients may have side effects, such as a lowered resistance to infection, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores. They may also have less energy and may lose their hair. These are short-term side effects which usually end after treatment stops.

During radiation therapy, patients can become very tired as treatment continues. Resting as much as possible is important. Skin reactions such as redness or dryness in the area being treated are common, and the skin should be protected from the sun. Good skin care is important at this time, but the patient should not use any lotion or cream on the skin without checking with the doctor.

For some patients, it may be important to have a complete dental exam before treatment begins. Because cancer treatment can make the mouth sensitive and easily infected, doctors often advise patients to see a dentist so that their mouths are as healthy as possible.

Loss of appetite can be a problem for patients during their treatment for cancer. Patients who eat well may be better able to withstand the side effects of their treatment, so good nutrition is important. Eating well means getting enough calories to prevent weight loss and having enough protein to regain strength and rebuild normal tissues. Many patients find that eating several small meals and snacks during the day works better than trying to have three large meals.

The side effects that patients have during cancer treatment vary for each person. They may even be different from one treatment to the next. Attempts are made to plan treatment to keep problems to a minimum. Fortunately, most side effects are temporary. Doctors, nurses, and dietitians can explain the side effects of cancer treatment and can suggest ways to deal with them.

Researchers are concerned about the possibility of long-term effects in young people who are treated with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These depend on the location of the tumor and the way it is treated. Some types of chemotherapy can affect a patient’s fertility. When this side effect is permanent, it is not possible for the person to have children. This can be true for both men and women. Radiation therapy can increase the possibility that a second tumor will later develop in the area that was treated. The doctor can tell patients and their families more about these possible effects.

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