What is the most common site of metastasis in patients with osteosarcoma?

The most common site of metastasis in patients with osteosarcoma is the lungs. This is primarily due to the hematogenous spread of cancer cells through the bloodstream, as the lungs are highly vascularized organs and a frequent location for metastatic deposits from various primary tumors, including osteosarcoma.

Osteosarcoma typically arises in the long bones, such as the femur, tibia, and humerus, and when it metastasizes, the pulmonary system becomes the most affected area. Early detection of lung metastases is crucial in the management of osteosarcoma, as the prognosis is significantly impacted by the presence of lung metastases at the time of diagnosis.

While other organs such as the liver, bones, and brain can also harbor metastases, they are less prevalent compared to the lungs in cases of osteosarcoma. The distinct biological behavior of this tumor and its tendency to spread to the lungs makes lung metastasis the most critical consideration in monitoring and treating patients with osteosarcoma.