Case report 650: Grade II chondrosarcoma of the proximal end of the right femur

A case is presented in which the conventional radiograph was suggestive of avascular necrosis. This impression remained unchanged inspite of an MRI examination that was more suggestive or replacement of marrow. The diagnosis of ischemic necrosis was strongly supported by the patient having previously established avascular necrosis in the opposite hip. The gross pathologic specimen showed only necrotic tumor, which mimicked avascular necrosis on the plain film. The importance of placing proper confidence in the MRI findings is thus emphasized. A classification and brief description of the various types of chondrosarcoma are included in the Discussion.