A very rare type of cancer, chordoma occurs in the bones of the spine and skull base. This occurs due to the formation of malignant tumors called sarcomas which are difficult to treat due to their location as they develop in critical structures like the spinal cord or brainstem. These tumors are slow to grow and show no symptoms in the initial stages and once diagnosed, even if treated have higher chances of recurrence.

Causes

There are no risk factors as such as chordoma is a random occurrence. These tumors develop from cells of the notochord tissue The notochord usually disappeared as the fetus progresses but in some cells remain which rarely turn malignant causing chordoma.

Symptoms

• double vision
• headaches
• weakness
• paralysis in your face

Diagnosing Chordomas

• a CT scan
• a MRI scan
• a biopsy