PMC3474223_01
(a) Axial T2 weighted MR image of the lesion at Th3 level, demonstrating significant spinal cord compression; (b) Sagittal contrast enhanced T1 weighted MR image of the lesion, showing spinal cord compression at Th3-Th4 level; (c) Axial CT scan of the lesion at Th3 level, demonstrating spinal canal involvement, bony erosion, and paravertebral extension of the tumor; (d) H/E x40 Clear cell chondrosarcoma characterised by tumor cells with variably clear cytoplasm.
CRIM.ONCMED2012-693137.001.jpg
PMC3474223_01_CRIM.ONCMED2012-693137.001.jpg
fig1
A computed tomography scan revealed a spinal mass, with osteolytic erosion of the posterior elements of the 3rd and 4th thoracic vertebrae, and paravertebral extension (Figure 1(c)). Magnetic resonance sequences unveiled a contrast-enhanced extradural mass, with significant spinal cord compression at the aforementioned levels (Figures 1(a) and 1(b)). Pathology was compatible with clear cell chondrosarcoma, mixed with conventional grade I chondrosarcoma (Figure 1(d)).
Postoperative (1 year) CT scan of the lesion at Th3-Th4 level, demonstrating laminectomy and absence of local recurrence.
CRIM.ONCMED2012-693137.002.jpg
PMC3474223_01_CRIM.ONCMED2012-693137.002.jpg
fig2
At one year from the operation, the patient is doing physically well and is free of local recurrence (Figure 2) or secondary disease.