What are the symptoms of bone marrow cancer?

Gary J. Schiller, MD on behalf of UCLA Health

Hematology & Oncology

Cancers that originate in the cells of the bone marrow can displace normal marrow elements, so patients have symptoms related to anemia, fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, swelling in the ankles, low white blood cell number (with infection) and low platelet count (with bleeding or unusual bruising).

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Symptoms of bone marrow cancer include the following:

fatigue due to anemia
bone pain
loss of appetite
weight loss
high blood calcium,
constipation
kidney damage

Continue Learning about Musculoskeletal Cancers

Dr. Mehmet Oz, MD

When we think of pain we usually focus our attention to soft tissue. But bone is tissue too and pain...

Jumo Health

The most common symptom of osteosarcoma is bone pain. There might be swelling over the bone, too. Ma...

Jumo Health

To diagnose osteosarcoma, the doctors will take a close look at the bones using x-rays. Other imagin...

Gary J. Schiller, MD

There are many distinct malignancies that originate in the cells of the bone marrow, that could be c...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Musculoskeletal Cancers

Cancers of the musculoskeletal system affects our bodys muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, joints and cartilage. For unknown reasons, cells that help us form our muscles, bones and connective tissues become damaged, leading to several cancers of this system, which helps us move our bodies. Many of these diseases are more common in children than adults. Rhabdomyosarcoma (pronounced RAB-doh-MY-oh-sar-KOH-muh) causes cancerous tumors to develop in the head, neck, bladder and reproductive organs. The Ewing Family of Tumors (EFTs) cause rare cancers of the bone and soft tissues found in our arms, legs, head, neck and trunk. The most common type of bone cancer, osteosarcoma weakens the connective tissues and minerals that give our bones strength. Most musculoskeletal cancers are rare but can be difficult to treat. Early detection is key to improving your outcome. See your doctor if you or your child have a lump that grows or does not disappear, find blood in your urine or have bone pain.

Learn More