Chondrosarcoma is a rare type of bone cancer that primarily affects the cartilage cells. It develops in the bones and joints, most commonly in the pelvis, ribs, and long bones of the arms and legs. Unlike other bone cancers, chondrosarcoma usually grows slowly but can become aggressive in advanced stages.
This cancer is most often seen in adults over the age of 40, although it can affect younger individuals in rare cases. Chondrosarcoma is different from osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma, as it originates in cartilage cells rather than the bone itself.
Chondrosarcoma begins when cartilage cells mutate and start growing uncontrollably. These mutated cells form tumors that can weaken bones and spread to other parts of the body, especially if left untreated.
Develops in cartilage tissues found in bones and joints.
Mostly affects adults over 40 but can occur in younger individuals.
Can be slow-growing or aggressive, depending on the type.
Often found in the pelvis, ribs, and long bones.
Difficult to treat with chemotherapy – surgery is the primary treatment option.
The exact cause of chondrosarcoma is unknown, but several risk factors have been linked to its development.
Age: Most cases occur in adults over 40.
Genetic Mutations: Mutations in cartilage-forming cells may lead to cancer.
Bone Diseases: Conditions like Ollier’s disease and Maffucci syndrome increase risk.
Previous Radiation Therapy: Exposure to radiation may trigger abnormal cartilage growth.
Benign Bone Tumors: Some non-cancerous tumors can transform into chondrosarcoma.
In its early stages, chondrosarcoma may not show noticeable symptoms. However, as the tumor grows, it can cause significant discomfort and physical changes.
Persistent bone pain – especially at night or during movement.
Swelling or lump in the affected area.
Limited range of motion – difficulty moving joints near the tumor.
Weak bones – increased risk of fractures.
Tingling or numbness – if the tumor presses on nerves.
Chondrosarcoma is classified into different types based on its behavior and severity.
The most common type.
Slow-growing but can become aggressive over time.
Found in pelvis, ribs, and femur (thigh bone).
A high-grade (aggressive) type.
Contains both cartilage cancer cells and more aggressive cancerous cells.
Tends to spread (metastasize) quickly.
A rare type.
Slow-growing and less likely to spread.
Often found in the upper arms and legs.
Highly aggressive and fast-growing.
More likely to spread to the lungs and other organs.
Occurs in bones as well as soft tissues.
Early diagnosis improves treatment success. A combination of imaging tests and biopsies is used to confirm chondrosarcoma.
X-rays: First step to detect abnormal bone growth.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides a detailed image of soft tissues and tumor size.
CT Scan (Computed Tomography): Determines how much the cancer has affected the bone.
Biopsy: A tissue sample is examined under a microscope to confirm cancer.
Bone Scans: Helps detect if cancer has spread to other bones.
Chondrosarcoma treatment depends on the tumor type, size, location, and aggressiveness. Surgery is the main treatment option.
Wide Excision Surgery: The tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue are removed to prevent recurrence.
Limb-Sparing Surgery: Used to remove cancer while preserving limb function.
Amputation (in severe cases): If the tumor is too aggressive or invades major nerves and blood vessels.
Used for high-grade or inoperable tumors.
Can help shrink tumors before surgery.
Proton therapy is an advanced radiation technique with fewer side effects.
Not very effective for conventional chondrosarcoma.
Used for aggressive types like mesenchymal and dedifferentiated chondrosarcoma.
New treatments are being tested to block cancer cell growth.
May help if cancer spreads beyond surgery control.
The prognosis for chondrosarcoma depends on the cancer stage, type, and treatment effectiveness.
Low-grade (slow-growing) tumors: 80-90% survival rate after 5 years.
Intermediate-grade tumors: 60-70% survival rate.
High-grade (aggressive) tumors: 30-50% survival rate.
Metastatic chondrosarcoma: Poorer outlook, but treatment advancements are improving outcomes.
Tumor grade and size – Larger and more aggressive tumors lower survival chances.
Location of the tumor – Tumors in difficult-to-treat areas, like the pelvis, have lower survival rates.
Response to treatment – Early detection and complete surgical removal improve survival.
Age and overall health – Younger, healthier patients respond better to treatment.
While chondrosarcoma cannot be completely prevented, some steps can reduce the risk or aid in early detection.
Regular check-ups if you have a family history of bone tumors.
Monitor existing bone conditions like enchondromas.
Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure.
Maintain bone health with a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Report persistent bone pain or swelling to a doctor.
Managing chondrosarcoma involves both physical recovery and emotional well-being.
Regular follow-ups – Monitor for recurrence.
Physical therapy – Helps regain movement and strength.
Emotional support – Counseling and support groups ease stress.
Healthy lifestyle – Nutritious diet and exercise boost recovery.
Pain management – Medications and alternative therapies like acupuncture.