* <spoiler text="What are some of the risk factors associated with the pathogenesis of osteosarcoma?">Gene mutations are fundamental to the development of osteosarcoma. Patients with hereditary retinoblastomas have a several hundred-fold greater risk of developing osteosarcoma. Mutations in the p53 suppressor gene (Li-Fraumeni syndrome) has been implicated in the development of most nonhereditary osteosarcomas as well as many other types of cancer. Interestingly, many osteosarcomas develop at sites of greatest bone growth where bone cell mitotic activity is at its peak--e.g., the base of the femoral growth plate where primary spongiosa is being formed and in Pagetic bone with its frenzy of bone formation and resorption.</spoiler>

* <spoiler text="What is the prognosis for patients with osteosarcoma?">Osteosarcomas are aggressive neoplasms that spread through the bloodstream, and at the time of diagnosis, approximately 20% of patients have demonstrable pulmonary metastases. In those who die of the neoplasm, 90% have metastases to the lungs, bones, brain, and elsewhere. With current treatment regimens the long-term survival rate has been increased to approximately 60% from the historic controls of 25%.</spoiler>

{{IPLab 7}}

[[Category: IPLab:Lab 7]]