bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Primary Cancerous Bone Tumors
Chordomas
Chordomas are rare and cancerous and tend to occur at the ends of the spinal column, usually in the middle of the base of the spine (sacrum) or tailbone or near the base of the skull. A chordoma affecting the sacrum or tailbone causes nearly constant pain. A chordoma in the base of the skull can cause problems in nerves at the base of the skull (the Overview of the Cranial Nerves ). Symptoms may exist for months to several years before diagnosis. Chordomas do not usually spread (metastasize) to other areas such as the lung unless they are more aggressive, but they may return after treatment. To help diagnose chordomas, doctors do Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (MRI). Doctors also do a Chordomas affecting the sacrum or tailbone may be cured by surgical removal. Chordomas in the base of the skull usually cannot be cured surgically, but Radiation Therapy for Cancer may temporarily shrink the tumor and help with pain. 