Bone cancer symptoms (malignancy)

About bone cancer

A cancer that starts in the bone is called a primary bone cancer. They are rare cancers. It is much more likely that some other problem is causing your symptoms. But it's important to get any symptoms checked out by your GP. 

Cancer can also spread to your bones from somewhere else. This is called secondary or metastatic bone cancer. The signs and symptoms of secondary bone cancer may be different.

Read more about secondary bone cancer

Common symptoms of bone cancer

Pain

You might have pain or tenderness most of the time, even when you're resting. The pain is often worse in bed at night.

You could have pain that is felt in a different part of the body from where the tumour is. This is called referred pain.

Swelling

You might have some swelling, but it is not always possible to see or feel a lump.

Problems moving around

It might be more difficult to move around, or you might walk with a limp.

Less common symptoms of bone cancer

A break in the bone

You might have a fracture caused by a weakened bone. This is called a pathological fracture but is very rare.

Feeling tired (fatigue)

You might feel more tired than usual, even if you're getting a good nights sleep.

A high temperature (fever)

You might have a high temperature, feel feverish and have sweats.

Weight loss

You might lose weight even if you haven't changed your diet.

Read more about seeing your GP