Last Updated on February 11, 2025 by tanya

 

When Growing Pains May Be Cancer

 

Claim for Medical Negligence

 

Medical professionals may often have to consider when growing pains may be cancer. This is because some cancers may present with early symptoms which are similar to normal growing pains.

Two bone cancers, Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma, can mimic growing pains which may result in misdiagnosis. As these cancers affect children, it is important for medical professionals to differentiate between normal aches and cramps in the legs to malignant conditions.

 

If you or a loved one has been misdiagnosed and are considering a claim for medical negligence, First Personal Injury may be able to assist.

 

Osteosarcoma

 

Osteosarcoma is the most common type of bone cancer in children and young adults. It typically arises in the long bones of the body, such as the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), or humerus (upper arm bone). It often develops during the adolescent growth spurt, which is why its symptoms can easily be mistaken for growing pains.

 

Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

 

The primary symptom of osteosarcoma is localized bone pain, which may initially be mild and intermittent. The pain tends to worsen over time and can become constant. Swelling or a noticeable lump may also develop around the affected bone.

The pain is often more pronounced at night which is similar to growing pains. However, unlike growing pains, osteosarcoma-related pain does not subside with massage or simple pain relief methods.

Because growing pains are typically episodic and do not involve swelling, persistent pain accompanied by swelling should raise concern. Additionally, osteosarcoma pain may not be alleviated by rest. In some cases, an affected bone may fracture more easily due to structural weakness.

 

Ewing Sarcoma

 

Ewing sarcoma is another type of bone cancer that primarily affects children and teenagers. It commonly found in the pelvis, femur, ribs, or collarbone, and it is caused by genetic mutations in bone or soft tissue cells. Like osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma can easily be mistaken for growing pains due to its symptoms.

 

Symptoms and Misdiagnosis

 

The symptoms of Ewing sarcoma include persistent bone pain, swelling, and tenderness around the affected area. The pain may initially be mistaken for normal musculoskeletal discomfort associated with growth spurts or physical activity. It often worsens at night, a characteristic also seen in growing pains. However, in contrast to growing pains, the pain from Ewing sarcoma is persistent and progressive, and it may not improve with time or massage.

In some cases, Ewing sarcoma may also cause systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue, weight loss, and an overall feeling of unwellness. If a child presents with persistent bone pain along with any of these additional symptoms, a thorough medical evaluation is warranted.

 

Distinguishing Growing Pains from Cancer

 

While growing pains are a normal part of childhood, parents and medical professionals should be aware of red flags that may indicate a more serious underlying. This may include:

 

1. Persistence and Progression – Growing pains are intermittent and do not worsen over time. Cancer-related pain is persistent and typically intensifies.
2. Location – Growing pains usually affect both legs, particularly the calves, thighs, and behind the knees. In contrast, osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma usually cause pain in a specific area of one limb.
3. Swelling or Lumps – Growing pains do not cause swelling, whereas bone cancers often lead to noticeable lumps or swelling at the tumour site.
4. Pain At Night  – Both growing pains and bone cancers can cause nighttime pain, but cancer-related pain tends to be more severe and unrelenting.
5. Systemic Symptoms – Fever, weight loss, and fatigue may accompany bone cancers, but not with growing pains.
6. Response to Comfort Measures – Growing pains improve with massage, stretching, or mild pain relievers. Cancer-related pain does not respond well to these measures.

 

Take The Next Steps

 

A cancer misdiagnosis is devastating for any family. If this has happened, you may be seeking to claim for medical negligence. Our team at First Personal Injury work with expert lawyers who operate on a No Win, No Fee basis, ensuring you get the support you need without financial risk. Call us at 0333 3582345 or contact us online and we will call you back at a time suitable for you.