THE LIMB BEYOND SALVAGE: A CASE REPORT ON TWO CASES OF FIBROBLASTIC VARIANTS OF OSTEOSARCOMA

Abstract

Introduction:Management outcome of osteosarcoma as a primary bone malignancy is challenged in Ghana by many factors. We presented two male patients; aged 18 and 14 years, respectively, who were referred to the Tamale Teaching Hospital with advanced right knee tumors. Both patients had above knee amputation as part of treatment. The tumors were confirmed histologically as fibroblastic variants of osteosarcoma. The patients died within the immediate post-operative period without the initiation of the appropriate chemotherapy. Conclusion:Unacceptable delay diagnosis and management of cancers worsened survival of patients. Education of patients, health workers and others along the patient management chain on the need early reporting and accurate diagnosis and management are recommended.