Cancer Research UK logo.
SearchDonate
  • Search

Bone cancer

Getting diagnosed with bone cancer

You usually start by seeing your GP for symptoms of bone cancer. They examine you and you go for tests or see a specialist.

Seeing your GP when you have symptoms of bone cancer

There are some things you can do to get the most out of your GP appointment. Find out more.

Referral to a bone cancer specialist

Your GP should arrange for you to see a bone cancer specialist if you have symptoms that could be due to bone cancer. Find out more.

Screening for bone cancer

There is no national screening programme for primary bone cancer. But you may be able to have tests if you are at a high risk of developing it.

Tests for bone cancer

You usually have a number of tests to check for cancer that starts in the bones. This includes scans and having a sample of bone tissue taken (a biopsy). If the tests show that you have a cancer, you have more tests to find out more about your bone cancer.

Last reviewed: 11 Feb 2025

Next review due: 11 Feb 2028

The Dangoor Education logo.

Dangoor Education

About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.

Help and Support

An icon of a hand shake.

Find a Clinical Trial

Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.

An icon of two speech bubbles, indicating a conversation.

Cancer Chat forum

Meet and chat to other cancer people affected by cancer.

An icon of a landline phone.

Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.