Chordoma: To know means to recognize

Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer. 2022 Sep;1877(5):188796. doi: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2022.188796. Epub 2022 Sep 9.

Abstract

Chordoma is a rare type of bone cancer characterized by its locally aggressive and destructive behavior. Chordoma is located in one of the three primary regions: skull base/clivus, sacrum or mobile spine. Chordoma grows slowly, therefore its insidious onset leads to delayed diagnosis, accounting for the low survival rates. Treatment centers around successful en bloc resection with negative margins, though, considering the anatomically constrained site of growth, it frequently requires adjuvant radiotherapy. This article analyzes the existing literature with the aim to provide a better insight in the current state of research in chordoma classification, characteristics, and management.

Keywords: Bone tumor; Brachyury; Chordoma; Diagnostics; Neuropathology; Radiotherapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chordoma* / diagnosis
  • Chordoma* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Sacrum / surgery
  • Spinal Neoplasms* / genetics
  • Spinal Neoplasms* / radiotherapy
  • Spinal Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Survival Rate
  • Treatment Outcome