Chondrosarcoma
Definition
Chondrosarcoma is a type of tumor that grows from cartilage cells of the body. Cartilage is the connective tissue from which most bones are created and is found in many areas of the body.
Chondrosarcoma is considered a malignant tumor (cancer) that is typically found in the cartilage cells of the femur, arm, pelvis, knee, and spine. Rarely, the ribs and other areas may also be affected. Chondrosarcoma can also originate at the skull base from the cartilage between the clivus and the petrous bone. This is called petro-clival synchondrosis.
Chondrosarcoma most often strikes between the ages of 50-70, and rarely strikes individuals younger than 20. Males and females are at equal risk of developing chondrosarcoma.
As with all cancers, the prognosis or outcome depends upon how large the tumor is and whether it has spread to distant structures.
Causes
The cause of chondrosarcomas is unknown. It is thought that certain individuals may develop the cancer due to a chromosomal or genetic factor.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Chondrosarcomas often occur from previously healthy cartilage cells found in healthy individuals. However, there are certain factors that seem to be common among individuals who develop chondrosarcoma.
The following factors may increase your chance of developing this condition:
- Enchondroma – a benign bone tumor often found in the hands
- Osteochondroma – excess cartilage or bone found at the end of a growth plate
- Multiple osteochondromas (bone tumors)
- Ollier's disease, which causes a group of enchondromas
- Maffucci's syndrome, which causes a combination of multiple enchondromas and various tumors
Symptoms
Symptoms of chondrosarcoma vary based on the location and severity of the tumor and will vary from person to person. The most common symptoms of chondrosarcoma include:
- Large lump or mass on a bone
- Pressure surrounding the mass
- Pain that worsens at night
- Pain that responds to anti-inflammatory pain relievers
- Pain that does not improve with rest
- Pain that gradually worsens over time and may last for years
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.
Tests may include the following:
- Biopsy – removal of a sample of tissue to check for a tumor (to diagnose a malignancy)
- X-ray – a test that uses radiation to take images of tissues, bones, and cartilage
- CT Scan – a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of internal organs, bones, and cartilage
- MRI Scan – a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of internal organs, bones, and cartilage
Treatment
Treatment options include:
Surgery
Surgery is the main modality of treatment and is used to remove the tumor.
Chondrosarcomas of the skull base can be directly treated through the expanded endonasal approach (EEA). This state-of-the-art, minimally invasive surgical procedure uses the nose as a natural corridor to reach these lesions. There are no incisions in the skin of the face or head. After an expanded endonasal resection of the tumor, patients do not need to wait several weeks to heal from the surgery before any radiotherapy is performed. Patients can receive radiation treatment sooner when necessary.
Radiation Therapy
High energy x-rays are used to target and kill cancer cells. This modality is usually performed after resection of the lesion.
Chemotherapy
Drugs that kill tumor cells may be used. Chemotherapy is considered investigational in the management of chondrosarcomas.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy may be used to help the affected area heal following surgery.
Prevention
Because the cause of chondrosarcoma is not fully understood, there are no known preventative measures that can help reduce the risk of developing the condition.
This content was created by UPMC using EBSCO’s Health Library.