Chondrosarcoma

Chondrosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that starts in cartilage cells — the tough, flexible tissue that cushions your joints and makes up parts of your skeleton. It is the second most common primary bone cancer in adults. Unlike some other bone cancers, chondrosarcoma tends to grow slowly, but it can spread to other parts of the body if not treated. The tumor most often forms in the bones of the pelvis, thigh (femur), upper arm (humerus), ribs, and shoulder blade, though it can appear in almost any bone. Most people with chondrosarcoma notice a slowly growing lump or swelling near a bone, along with dull, aching pain that may get worse at night or with activity. Because the tumor grows slowly, symptoms can be present for months or even years before a diagnosis is made. There are several subtypes of chondrosarcoma, including conventional (the most common), dedifferentiated, mesenchymal, and clear cell, each with different behaviors and outlooks. Treatment depends on the grade and location of the tumor. Surgery to remove the tumor is the main treatment and is often the only effective option, since chondrosarcoma does not respond well to standard chemotherapy or radiation. For low-grade tumors caught early, surgery can be curative. Higher-grade or advanced tumors are harder to treat, and research into new therapies is ongoing. A team of specialists works together to plan the best approach for each person.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Bring these to your next appointment

• Q1.What grade and stage is my chondrosarcoma, and what does that mean for my outlook?,Is surgery possible, and can you preserve my limb or joint?,Are there any clinical trials I might be eligible for?,Should I have genetic testing to see if my cancer is related to a hereditary condition?,How often will I need follow-up scans, and what are we watching for?,What are the risks of the surgery, and what will my recovery look like?,Are there any targeted therapies or newer treatments that might work for my specific tumor type?

Common questions about Chondrosarcoma

Related conditions

Other rare diseases commonly researched alongside Chondrosarcoma.

• Maffucci syndrome→
• Osteosarcoma→