Osteosarcoma: anatomic and histologic variants.

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary tumor of bone, yet its absolute incidence among malignant tumors is low. Within its strict histologic definition, osteosarcoma comprises a family of lesions with considerable diversity in histologic features and grade. Its prognosis is dependent not only on these parameters, but also on its anatomic site. It may occur inside the bones (in the intramedullary or intracortical compartment), on the surfaces of bones, and in extraosseous sites. Information of diagnostic or prognostic significance has not been elucidated from studies of its cytogenetics. This review summarizes the anatomic and histologic variations of osteosarcoma and offers a schema for its subclassification.