Abstract
Primary chondrosarcoma is the third most common malignancy of the bone and accounts for approximately 20% of malignant bone tumors. Chondrosarcoma arises mainly in the trunk and the limbs, and rarely in head and neck lesions. Because of their rarity, there have been few large-scale studies on the clinicopathological characteristics of these tumors. In this report, we describe three cases of head and neck chondrosarcoma and review the clinical findings, management and outcomes of the previously reported cases.
Case 1. A 67-year-old male was referred to our department with dyspnea on exertion. The tumor was located in the cricoid cartilage. Total laryngectomy was performed and post-operative diagnosis was grade III chondrosarcoma.
Case 2. The patient was a 71-year-old female with right nasal obstruction. Computed tomography and biopsy revealed the diagnosis of grade I chondrosarcoma. Transnasal endoscopic resection was performed.
Case 3. A 67-year-old male presented with preauricular swelling. Radiographic examination revealed a tumor arising from the condyle of the mandible. Cytologic examination suggested that the tumor was of cartilaginous origin. Surgical removal of the tumor was performed and subsequent histological examination revealed the diagnosis of grade II chondrosarcoma.
All patients remain free of disease at present.
