4 Signs You May Have Chondrosarcoma -- Symptoms, Causes, Effects, Treatment and Prevention
Chondrosarcoma is a type of malignant bone tumor that arises from cartilage cells. It primarily affects adults and is more commonly found in the pelvis, shoulder, and long bones of the limbs. Chondrosarcoma can be categorized into different grades based on its aggressiveness and potential to spread.
Symptoms of Chondrosarcoma:
Chondrosarcoma may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. As the tumor grows, individuals may experience:
- Localized pain or tenderness in the affected bone or joint.
- Swelling or a palpable mass near the tumor site.
- Limited range of motion if the tumor is near a joint.
- Fractures or bone deformities in advanced cases.
Diagnosis of Chondrosarcoma:
The diagnosis of chondrosarcoma involves various procedures and tests, including:
- Medical history and physical examination: The doctor will evaluate the patient's symptoms, medical history, and perform a physical examination to assess the affected area.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are used to visualize the tumor, determine its size and location, and assess the involvement of nearby tissues and structures.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is performed to obtain a tissue sample for microscopic examination. This helps confirm the diagnosis of chondrosarcoma and determine its grade and subtype.
Causes of Chondrosarcoma:
The exact cause of chondrosarcoma is not fully understood. However, certain factors may increase the risk, including:
- Genetic predisposition: Certain genetic conditions, such as multiple hereditary exostoses (MHE) and Ollier disease, are associated with an increased risk of developing chondrosarcoma.
- Previous radiation therapy: Individuals who have undergone radiation treatment for other cancers, especially during childhood, have a higher risk of developing chondrosarcoma later in life.
Effects of Chondrosarcoma:
Chondrosarcoma can have significant effects on a person's health and well-being. If left untreated, it can grow locally, invade nearby tissues, and weaken the affected bone. In some cases, chondrosarcoma can metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body, such as the lungs.
Treatment of Chondrosarcoma:
The treatment of chondrosarcoma depends on various factors, including the tumor's size, location, grade, and the overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: The mainstay of treatment for chondrosarcoma is surgical removal of the tumor. The extent of surgery depends on the tumor's size, location, and involvement of surrounding tissues. In some cases, limb-sparing surgery or reconstructive procedures may be performed to preserve function.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery to target and destroy cancer cells, reduce the risk of local recurrence, and alleviate symptoms.
- Chemotherapy: Chondrosarcoma is generally resistant to chemotherapy. However, certain aggressive or metastatic cases may benefit from chemotherapy drugs to help shrink the tumor or control the spread of cancer cells.
Prevention of Chondrosarcoma:
There are no specific measures to prevent chondrosarcoma since the exact cause is unknown. However, regular medical check-ups, early detection of any bone abnormalities or symptoms, and prompt treatment can help improve outcomes.
References:
Bovée, J. V. (2014). Multiple osteochondromas. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases, 9(1), 1-9.
Silveira, C. R., Mohler, D. G., & Lima, G. S. (2021). Chondrosarcoma. In StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2021). NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology: Bone Cancer.
Khan, M., Abudu, A., Bramer, J. A., & Jeys, L. (2018). Chondrosarcoma: a 33-year experience at a single specialist center. Acta Orthopaedica, 89(2), 206-210.
