Primary spinal dumbbell-shaped mesenchymal chondrosarcoma located intradurally and extradurally

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Oncology

Background:

• Mesenchymal chondrosarcoma is a rare bone and soft tissue malignancy.
• Spinal involvement is exceptionally rare, with combined intradural and extradural presentation being unprecedented.

Observation:

• A 25-year-old male presented with back pain and progressive bilateral lower extremity weakness.
• MRI revealed a dumbbell-shaped, enhancing mass at T7, extending from the intradural left spinal cord to the extradural extraforminal space via the T7-8 intervertebral foramen.

Findings:

• The tumor was histopathologically confirmed as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma.
• Complete surgical resection was achieved via a posterior approach.
• Adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy were administered to prevent recurrence and metastasis.

Implications:

• This case represents the first reported instance of a spinal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma with simultaneous intradural and extradural extension.
• Successful management highlights the importance of comprehensive treatment strategies for rare spinal tumors.
• The findings contribute to understanding the clinical behavior and management of intraspinal mesenchymal chondrosarcomas.