Chondrosarcoma – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Chondrosarcoma is a rare cancer that typically begins in bone tissue but may also develop in soft tissues near bones. This cancer most commonly affects the pelvis, hip, and shoulder regions, with less frequent occurrences in the spine.
Most chondrosarcomas are slow-growing tumors that may not cause noticeable symptoms in early stages. However, certain rare varieties grow aggressively and can spread to other body parts, making treatment more challenging.
The primary treatment approach for chondrosarcoma is surgical removal of the tumor. Doctors may also recommend radiation therapy and chemotherapy. These treatments might be used alongside surgery depending on the specific characteristics of the cancer and its stage.
Symptoms
Chondrosarcoma typically develops gradually, often without early warning signs. As the cancer progresses, patients may notice:
- Persistent pain that worsens over time
- A noticeable lump or swelling that increases in size
- Muscle weakness
If the tumor affects the spine, individuals might experience difficulty controlling their bladder or bowels. These symptoms develop when the growing tumor puts pressure on the spinal cord.
Causes
Scientists don’t fully understand what triggers chondrosarcoma. Research shows that this cancer begins when cells develop DNA mutations. DNA works like an instruction manual for cells. When mutations occur, they can tell cells to:
- Multiply rapidly
- Survive when they should naturally die
- Form tumors that invade healthy tissue
These abnormal cells create tumors that damage normal tissue around them. Eventually, cancer cells may break away from the original tumor and spread to other parts of the body, a process called metastasis.
DNA mutations happen randomly or may be influenced by environmental factors, though specific causes for chondrosarcoma remain unknown.
Risk Factors
Several factors may raise your chance of developing chondrosarcoma:
Age: This cancer appears more frequently in people who are middle-aged or older, though it can develop at any point in life.
Existing Bone Conditions: People with Ollier’s disease or Maffucci’s syndrome have a higher risk. These conditions cause benign bone growths (enchondromas) that sometimes transform into cancerous tumors over time.
