What Is Osteosarcoma?

Osteosarcoma (also called osteogenic sarcoma) is a type of bone cancer that develops in the osteoblast cells that form the outer covering of bone. It occurs most often in children, adolescents, and young adults. Learn more about childhood osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma most commonly occurs in the long bones around the knee. Other sites for osteosarcoma include the upper leg, or thighbone, the lower leg, upper arm bone, or any bone in the body, including those in the pelvis, shoulder, and skull.

Osteosarcoma may metastasize, or spread, into nearby tissues, such as tendons or muscles. It may also metastasize through the bloodstream to other organs or bones in the body.

The exact cause of osteosarcoma is not known, but may be due to DNA mutations—either inherited or acquired after birth.

What to Expect

The Sarcoma Program specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of Sarcoma, including Osteosarcoma. As you and your family prepare for your care at Stanford, you’ll likely have many questions. We are here to help you in any way we can and to partner with you before, during and after treatment.

Learn about what to expect during Sarcoma care »

Clinical Trials for Osteosarcoma

Clinical trials are research studies that evaluate a new medical approach, device, drug, or other treatment. As a Stanford Health Care patient, you may have access to the latest, advanced clinical trials.

Open trials refer to studies currently accepting participants. Closed trials are not currently enrolling, but may open in the future.

Open Trials Closed Trials

Clinics for Osteosarcoma