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What are common signs and symptoms of osteosarcoma?
Severe headaches
Fatigue and fever
Pain and swelling
Unexplained weight loss
The correct answer is: Pain and swelling
The most common signs and symptoms of osteosarcoma are pain and swelling, particularly around the bones affected by the cancer. Patients often experience localized pain that may start as a dull ache and can progress to more severe pain, particularly at night or during physical activity. Swelling typically occurs as a result of the tumor growth, which can cause tenderness and can be palpable in the affected area. These symptoms can prompt further investigation, often leading to a diagnosis through imaging studies or biopsy. In contrast, severe headaches are not a typical manifestation of osteosarcoma and are generally more associated with neurological issues. Fatigue and fever can occur with many different conditions, but they are not specific to osteosarcoma itself. Unexplained weight loss can also be seen in various types of cancer, but it is not a hallmark symptom of osteosarcoma, which primarily presents with localized symptoms. Therefore, pain and swelling are the definitive indicators in the context of osteosarcoma.