What is Chordoma?
Chordoma is a rare bone cancer that originates from remnants of the notochord, a structure involved in spine formation during early development in the womb. Chordomas usually develop along the spine, commonly at the base of the skull or in the lower spine (sacrum). Though slow-growing, they can be aggressive and may invade nearby tissues.
Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but genetic mutations, particularly in the T gene, may play a role. No environmental causes have been identified.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the tumour’s location and may include:
- Persistent pain at the tumour site
- Neurological issues like numbness or weakness (if the spinal cord is affected)
- Difficulty swallowing (if the tumour is near the skull)
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves MRI and CT scans to assess the tumour’s size and location, and a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis through tissue analysis.
Treatment
The primary treatment is surgical removal of the tumour, often followed by radiation therapy to lower the chance of recurrence. Research into targeted therapies is ongoing.
Prognosis
Outlook depends on factors like tumour size, location, and the ability to remove it completely. The five-year survival rate ranges from 50% to 70%, with smaller, fully removable tumours having the best outcomes.
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways: