Chondrosarcoma of the jaw: a retrospective series

Low-grade chondrosarcoma presents with features similar to those of benign lesions, such as chondroma and synovial chondromatosis, increasing the difficulty in reaching an accurate diagnosis preoperatively. In this study, we retrospectively reviewed 10 chondrosarcoma cases and evaluated the diagnostic approaches and management modalities.

Ten cases were included in the present study. We evaluated the clinical features, initial diagnosis, histopathology subtype, immunohistologic markers, final diagnosis, and treatment modalities.

Most of the lesions were found in the mandible. Two cases were followed up for 1 month and 4 years, respectively as benign lesions before malignant changes were detected. With regard to chondrosarcoma histopathology subtypes, 6 cases were identified as conventional chondrosarcoma, whereas 4 cases were diagnosed as mesenchymal chondrosarcoma with aggressive behavior; of these, 3 were associated with local recurrence and metastasis. The immunohistologic markers showed no specificity for chondrosarcoma.

Distinguishing low-grade chondrosarcoma, particularly in the temporomandibular joint, from benign lesions, such as chondroma or synovial chondromatosis, remains difficult. Currently, the correlation between clinical, radiographic, and histologic features accompanied by close follow-up is extremely important for patients diagnosed with chondrogenic lesions. Postoperative radiotherapy seems to be beneficial in patients with positive surgical margins.