CHONDROSARCOMA OF THE SKULL BASE - A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Chondrosarcoma of the skull base is a
rare slow-growing tumor presenting with
symptoms due to compression of adjacent
structures. Total surgical excision is often
difficult due to local anatomical limitations.
The differential diagnosis among chondrosarcoma,
chordoma, and chondroid
chordoma is important due to their different
prognoses. We describe a case of
chondrosarcoma of skull base presenting
with headache, visual dysfunction and seizures.
Imaging revealed a skull base tumor.
After tumor excision, histopathologic
examination and immunostaining showed
a grade II chondrosarcoma. In conclusion,
accurate diagnosis and careful surgical
treatment play important roles in the management
of chondrosarcoma.
Keyword :Chondrosarcoma, Skull base,
Intracranial, Temporal bone
INTRODUCTION:
Chondrosarcoma of the skull base is an
uncommon neoplasm comprising 0.15% of
all intracranial tumors and 6% of skull base
neoplasms.1 They are slow-growing tumours.
Diagnosis is only made after
biopsy since clinical signs and symptoms
and radiological findings are not pathognomonic.
Symptomatology mainly derives
from tumour encroachment and infiltration
of adjacent intracranial structures. We
present a case of chondrosarcoma of
base of skull presenting with pressure
symptoms.