Epidemiologic study of 112 osteosarcomas in Chiang Mai University Hospital, Thailand

Abstract

Objective: To summarize the epidemiologic features of osteosarcoma. Material and Method: One hundred and twelve cases of osteosarcoma were collected retrospectively from the Pathology Department of the Chiang Mai University Hospital, Thailand between 1995 and 2005. Results: From the present study, there were 14 cases in average, annually, since 2002. Seventy-seven percent of cases were from the upper north Thailand, the region serviced by Chiang Mai University Hospital. The male:female ratio was 1.3:1 and 86% of cases occurred within the first three decades of life. The majority of cancer was found in the long bones (83%) and the majority of lesion was around the knee (68%). Conventional and telangiectatic osteosarcoma accounted for 85% and 8% of cases, respectively. Conclusion: The authors have summarized some epidemiologic features of osteosarcoma. The authors found the relatively high frequency of telangiectatic osteosarcoma around the upper part of north Thailand. These results give an initial picture to the national health provider section for planning personnel, medical and supportive equipment, and funding for the care of osteosarcoma patients. Nationwide co-operation in registering osteosarcoma patients would provide more complete data on this tumor in Thailand and promote the establishment of standardized treatment protocols.