COMPARED to neoplasms of the soft tissues, primary tumors of bone are rare; the incidence is about 1 per 100,000 members of the population. In general, malignant disease affects the older age groups. Bone neoplasms, however, often occur in children and young adults. If the early symptoms are recognized, and a timely diagnosis is made, a young life may be saved. In many instances it is the nurse whose suspicions are first aroused by the signs and symptoms of bone tumor.