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European Spine Journal

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01-05-2017 | Case Report

Giant chordoma in the thoracolumbar spine: a case report and literature review

Authors: Feifei Pu, Baichuan Wang, Jianxiang Liu, Fengxia Chen, Zengwu Shao

Published in: European Spine Journal | Special Issue 1/2017

Abstract

Study design

Case report.

Purpose

We present a rare case of a giant chordoma in the thoracolumbar spine and review the current literature. We describe its complicated clinical progression, hoping to shed light on the clinical management of this complex tumor.

Methods

We present a previously healthy 41-year-old man who experienced progressive low back pain at T10-L2 for the past 2 years. A giant tumor was detected on magnetic resonance imaging, and aspiration biopsy was used to obtain a definite pathological diagnosis. The postoperative pathology confirmed that it was a chordoma. He underwent complete resection of the tumor and internal fixation of the vertebral bodies, which is a good way to control recurrence and preserve stability.

Results

Histopathology confirmed the tumor was a chordoma via immunohistochemical study of both the biopsy sample and the surgically resected tissues. There has been no recurrence or metastasis at the 30-month postsurgery radiographic examination. The internal fixation has remained stable.

Conclusion

Primary chordoma in the thoracolumbar spine is extremely rare. The treatment is difficult because the current literature is sparse and patients are rare. Complete resection and internal fixation are effective for reducing recurrences and metastasis.

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Title: Giant chordoma in the thoracolumbar spine: a case report and literature review
Authors: Feifei Pu
Baichuan Wang
Jianxiang Liu
Fengxia Chen
Zengwu Shao
Publication date: 01-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Spine Journal / Issue Special Issue 1/2017
Print ISSN: 0940-6719
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0932
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00586-016-4877-6

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Giant chordoma in the thoracolumbar spine: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Study design

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Study design

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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