Incidence, location, and diagnostic evaluation of metastatic bone disease.

Hage, W D; Aboulafia, A J; Aboulafia, D M · Orthop Clin North Am · 2000

review · Level V

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Abstract

Metastatic carcinoma is the most common malignancy of bone. The clinical presentation of patients with skeletal metastasis is variable. When asked to evaluate a patient with a pathologic lesion or unexplained bone pain, the orthopedic surgeon should follow a logical sequence of steps in evaluating the patient with suspected metastasis to optimize care and avoid complications. In the majority of cases, a systematic approach to the patient with skeletal metastasis leads to the correct diagnosis.

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