Chondrosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor originating from chondrocytes. Early diagnosis is difficult, and delayed diagnosis may lead to tumor enlargement and distant metastasis, severely affecting patient survival rates. Diagnosis requires combining clinical manifestations, imaging examinations, and histopathology to ensure accurate evaluation and treatment.
1. Imaging examinations
X-ray is the preliminary screening method, showing bone destruction, mass shadows, and cartilage calcification. CT scans provide detailed visualization of tumor boundaries, bone destruction, and invasion of adjacent tissues. MRI is more sensitive in evaluating the extent of soft tissue tumors and neurovascular involvement, serving as an important tool for assessing local tumor progression.
2. Pathological diagnosis
Tissue biopsy is the gold standard for confirmation. By observing chondrocyte morphology, degree of differentiation, and proliferation activity under a microscope, the malignancy level of the tumor is determined. Immunohistochemistry helps differentiate chondrosarcoma from other bone tumors.
3. Molecular biology testing
In some cases, genetic testing analyzes relevant mutations to aid in tumor typing and treatment sensitivity assessment, providing a basis for immune reconstruction cell therapy.
4. Auxiliary examinations
PET-CT assists in whole-body tumor screening and assessment of distant metastases. Although blood biomarkers are non-specific, they can be used for treatment monitoring.
Diagnosis of chondrosarcoma requires multidisciplinary collaboration, and accurate evaluation of the condition is crucial. Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that timely and standardized diagnosis is the foundation for formulating effective treatment plans and is directly related to patient prognosis.