What type of imaging is often used in diagnosing osteosarcoma?

X-ray imaging is frequently the first step in diagnosing osteosarcoma due to its availability, speed, and effectiveness in revealing certain characteristics associated with bone tumors. On an X-ray, osteosarcoma typically appears as an aggressive bone lesion with features such as a sunburst pattern of bone formation and a periosteal reaction, which can suggest the presence of a malignant process.

Additionally, X-rays provide valuable information about the bone's structure and any associated changes, helping to inform further imaging studies if necessary. While other imaging modalities like CT scans, MRIs, and bone scans can play significant roles in staging, surgical planning, and assessing metastasis, X-rays remain the initial imaging modality of choice for evaluating suspected cases of osteosarcoma.