Diagnosing Chondrosarcomas of the Brain and Spine

Chondrosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that originates from cartilage cells and typically occurs in the bones of the limbs and the pelvis. However, it can also occur in the bones of the skull, spine, and other parts of the body. Chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine is a rare form of the disease.

Symptoms of chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine may vary, depending on the location and size of the tumor. These symptoms may include:

• Headaches
• Vision problems
• Neurological symptoms such as weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs
• Seizures
• Pain or discomfort in the affected area
• Difficulty with movement or coordination
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue
• Nausea

These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so there is no way for you to tell if you have a chondrosarcoma based on symptoms alone. A proper medical evaluation is needed for a definitive diagnosis.

It's important to consult with your doctor if you have any signs or symptoms that may be related to chondrosarcoma, or if you have a family history of this type of cancer. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for successful treatment and a positive outcome.

Diagnosis of chondrosarcomas of the brain and spine typically involves a combination of medical examination, imaging tests, and biopsy. Some of the diagnostic steps that may be taken include:

• Medical history and physical examination: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and will perform a physical examination to check for signs of a tumor or other abnormal growth.
• Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or positron emission tomography (PET) scans, can help your doctor to identify a tumor and determine its size, location, and shape.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is removed from the tumor for examination under a microscope. This can help to confirm the diagnosis of chondrosarcoma and to determine the grade of the tumor.

• Additional tests: Additional tests such as blood tests, bone scans, and other imaging tests may be done to rule out other conditions or to determine the extent of the cancer.


Detecting chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine is difficult and requires a multidisciplinary approach, including a team of specialists comprising a neurologist, neurosurgeon, oncologist, radiologist, and a pathologist. This group of specialists will work together to review test results, confirm your diagnosis, and develop a treatment plan.

Based on the appearance of chondrosarcoma cells under a microscope, the tumor can be graded on a scale from 1 to 3 based on the degree of cellular abnormality. A grade 1 tumor is typically slow growing and less likely to spread to other parts of the body (metastasize), whereas a grade 3 tumor is rapidly growing and more likely to metastasize. A grade 2 tumor lies somewhere between with a moderate growth rate and likelihood of metastasis.

Chondrosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. For example, when chondrosarcoma spreads to the lungs, it is known as lung metastasis. Metastasis can occur when cancer cells from the primary tumor in the bone spread to other parts of the body through blood or lymphatic vessels. This can happen early in the course of the disease or years later.

Metastasis is more common in cases of high-grade chondrosarcoma, which are more likely to spread. The lungs are a common site for metastasis. Symptoms of a lung metastasis may not be immediately apparent, but as the cancer progresses, symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, loss of appetite, and nausea.

Remember that not all patients experience symptoms of metastasis, and in some cases, it may be found during a routine imaging test for the primary tumor. In any case, if you suspect you may have chondrosarcoma or have been diagnosed with it, it is important to follow your doctor's recommendations for monitoring and follow-up care, including regular imaging and physical exams.

Early detection of chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine is crucial for a positive outcome, as the cancer can be slow-growing and early treatment can be more effective. The best way to detect a chondrosarcoma as early as possible is by regularly seeing your primary care physician. Although these annual health examinations may seem mundane, it is a chance for you to reflect on and discuss any new health symptoms or concerns.

If any symptoms you report indicate a possible chondrosarcoma, additional tests may be ordered. Some of the diagnostic methods for detection include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging: MRI is the most sensitive and specific imaging modality for detecting chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine; it can show the tumor's size, shape, and relationship to surrounding structures.
• Computed tomography: CT scans can provide detailed images of the bone and surrounding tissue.
• Positron emission tomography scan: PET scans help to detect whether the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
• Biopsy: A biopsy is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of chondrosarcoma. A small sample of the tumor is removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.

These tests are not always specific for chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine, and a proper diagnosis is made with the combination of imaging and examination of a biopsy. If you have symptoms that may be caused by a brain or spinal tumor, or if you have a family history of bone cancer, it is important to discuss this with your doctor and to have regular checkups.

• Chondrosarcoma of the brain and spine is a rare form of the disease.
• Diagnosing chondrosarcomas of the brain and spine involves a complete medical history and physical exam, imaging tests such as X-rays, CT, MRI, and PET scans, biopsy, and sometimes blood tests.
• Early detection and diagnosis are essential to improve the chances of a successful outcome.

• Sarcoma Foundation of America
• The Liddy Shriver Sarcoma Initiative
• Chondrosarcoma Foundation
• National Brain Tumor Society
• American Brain Tumor Association