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Intrasellar chordomas mimicking pituitary adenoma
E Thodou1, G Kontogeorgos, B W Scheithauer
1Department of Pathology, General Hospital of Athens, Greece.
Journal of Neurosurgery
|June 6, 2000
Summary
Intrasellar chordomas, rare tumors in the sellar region, can be misdiagnosed. Early diagnosis and aggressive surgical resection are key for favorable outcomes in these pituitary fossa chordomas.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Endocrinology
- Pathology
Background:
- Chordomas are rare tumors, with intrasellar chordomas being exceptionally uncommon.
- Sellar region chordomas often present diagnostic challenges due to their rarity and potential mimicry of pituitary adenomas.
Observation:
- This study presents three cases of chordomas entirely filling the pituitary fossa, initially presenting as nonfunctioning pituitary adenomas.
- Histological and immunophenotypic analysis confirmed the chordoma diagnosis.
- One case underwent ultrastructural and DNA analysis, revealing a diploid DNA histogram.
Findings:
- Intrasellar chordomas can be misdiagnosed, potentially delaying appropriate treatment.
- Despite diagnostic challenges, these tumors exhibit typical chordoma histological and immunophenotypic features.
Implications:
- Accurate and timely diagnosis of intrasellar chordomas is crucial for effective management.
- Aggressive surgical resection offers a favorable prognosis for limited-extent intrasellar chordomas.