Question 1

What is adamantinoma?

Accepted Answer

Adamantinoma is a rare, slow-growing malignant (cancerous) bone tumor that occurs almost exclusively in the tibia (shin bone). It accounts for less than 1% of all bone tumors. The tumor grows slowly and can be present for years before diagnosis. Despite being cancerous, it's 'low-grade' meaning it grows slowly and spreads late. With appropriate treatment (surgical removal with wide margins), cure rates are high.

Question 2

Why is it called adamantinoma?

Accepted Answer

The name comes from 'adamant' (meaning hard, like a diamond) because under the microscope, the tumor cells resemble cells found in tooth enamel (ameloblasts). This is why it's related to a similar tumor found in the jaw called ameloblastoma.

Question 3

Is adamantinoma cancer?

Accepted Answer

Yes, adamantinoma is a malignant (cancerous) bone tumor. However, it's 'low-grade' meaning it grows slowly. It can spread to lungs (metastasize) in 15-30% of cases, but this often takes years or even decades. Unlike many cancers, chemotherapy and radiotherapy don't work well for adamantinoma - surgery is the main treatment.

Question 4

Will I definitely need surgery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, surgery is the only curative treatment for adamantinoma. Because it's a malignant tumor that will continue growing and may spread, surgery is recommended in virtually all cases where the patient is fit enough. The goal is 'wide excision' - removing the tumor with a margin of healthy bone around it. This gives the best chance of cure.

Question 5

Will I lose my leg?

Accepted Answer

Most patients (90%+) can have limb-sparing surgery, where the tumor is removed and the bone reconstructed. Amputation is now rarely needed for adamantinoma. Advances in surgical techniques and reconstruction methods allow preservation of the leg in most cases. You should be treated at a specialist bone tumor center where limb-sparing expertise is available.

Medical Disclaimer

Adamantinoma (Rare Bone Tumor)

📖What is Adamantinoma (Rare Bone Tumor)?

🔬What Causes It?

⚠️Risk Factors

You may be at higher risk if:

🛡️Prevention