American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

Which of the following describes the nature of osteosarcoma?

1. Benign tumor

2. Malignant bone tumor

3. Soft tissue tumor

4. Fibrous tumor

The correct answer is: Malignant bone tumor

Osteosarcoma is classified as a malignant bone tumor, which means it originates in the bone and has the potential to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize, or spread, to other parts of the body. This characteristic of malignancy is significant because it informs the prognosis and treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with the condition. Osteosarcoma typically arises from osteoblasts, which are the cells responsible for bone formation. It is most commonly found in the long bones, such as the arms and legs, particularly around the knee and shoulder joints. The aggressive nature of this tumor necessitates prompt diagnosis and intervention, often involving a combination of surgery and chemotherapy to manage the disease effectively. In contrast to the other options: benign tumors do not spread and are usually less serious; soft tissue tumors originate in muscle, fat, nerves, or other connective tissues, and fibrous tumors are specific to fibrous tissue rather than bone. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in orthopedics and oncology for effective patient care and treatment planning.