An evaluation of bone cancer begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in those with bone cancer may include

• Tenderness over a bone
• Swelling over a bone
• Difficulty walking if a leg bone is involved
• Severe bone pain and deformity if a fracture has occurred

Testing is required to evaluate bone cancer.

Tests that may be used to evaluate bone cancer include:

• Alkaline phosphatase blood level
• Calcium blood level
• AST (SGOT) level
• Bone x-rays:
• Usually the first test used to detect a bone tumor
• Bone biopsy:
• A sample of bone cells is collected to determine the presence of cancer
• Nuclear bone scan:
• Easily detects abnormal areas of bone
• CT scanning of the bones:
• Provides great detail of the bone
• MRI scanning of the bones:
• Provides the best detail of the soft tissue