Chordoma of the base of the skull is a very rare tumor-like disease of bone tissue. According to scientific studies, this pathology originates from the notochord. The notochord is called the primary skeleton of the embryo. Over time, it is replaced by the spine, but those people who have particles of notochord left at risk of getting a disease such as a chordoma of the base of the skull. In this article, we will consider the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment methods of this pathology, and also analyze the forecasts for the future.
Features of this disease
Chordoma of the base of the skull occurs in about forty percent of bone tumors and usually affects young people. The development of this pathology is also possible in the coccygeal-sacral spine and in other departments.
Such an oncological disease of bone tissue usually develops slowly and is often benign. However, with progression, this pathology has a significant effect on the brain. She begins to squeeze it strongly, which has such a negative effect on the body. In addition, pathology affects the nasopharynx and ocular orbit, which leads to dysfunctions of these parts of the body.
The main causes of this disease
Chordoma of the base of the skull as of today does not have an exact cause of origin. According to scientists, deviations in genetics and exposure to radiation can provoke the development of this ailment.
In addition, there are several factors that can increase the risk of developing a pathology such as the chordoma of the base of the skull. Photos of the manifestations of this ailment can be found in this article. So, pay attention to additional risk factors:
- Accommodation in areas with poor ecology;
- the presence of bad habits;
- maintaining a sedentary lifestyle;
- contact with chemicals, as well as work in hazardous industries.
Often, problems with the spine can begin under the influence of excessive physical exertion, as well as after suffering serious injuries.
Signs of the presence of this pathology
Chordoma of the nasopharynx and base of the skull has the form of a node that is covered with a thick capsule. If this tumor-like formation is cut, then inside it you can see whitish-gray cells with clear signs of tissue death.
Since chordoma grows very slowly, the first symptoms of the disease are unlikely to be recognized. However, patients gradually begin to notice an increasing headache, pain in the neck, as well as inhibition of mental reactions. Vision problems may begin. Moreover, they are usually of the most diverse nature. It is not excluded the development of strabismus, double vision, as well as complete loss of vision.
In addition, the patient complains of a constant feeling of tiredness, drowsiness and lethargy. At the same time, in many patients, appetite disappears and body weight begins to decrease rapidly. Experts recommend going to the hospital as soon as possible, in the presence of the very first symptoms. Only in this case can one have good forecasts for the future.
Diagnostic Methods
When chordomas of the base of the skull are identified, life expectancy depends on how early the disease was discovered. First of all, diagnosis is carried out by external examination and with the help of a large number of neurological tests. If a specialist notices a combination of special symptoms, he will offer the patient a further examination.
Diagnostic methods such as MRI and radiography are also used. If necessary, a study of the joints of the brain can be carried out, as well as a measurement of its activity.
Treatment methods
Chordomas of the base of the skull and radiation proton therapy are two allies. However, surgery can also be used to treat this pathology. Such therapy methods are carried out only in special neurosurgical centers. Since the tumor is located in a very difficult place, it is almost impossible to completely remove it. However, even incomplete removal significantly eases the patient's condition, because pressure on the brain decreases. An operation is fatal in only five percent of cases. This suggests that the surgical procedure is as safe as possible. In some cases, patients undergo several operations, the intervals between which are about one month.
Most often, surgery is supplemented by treatment with radiation proton therapy. Irradiation contributes to a significant reduction in the size of the residual tumor formation, as well as the prevention of progressive processes of the disease. This method of treatment is prescribed not only after surgery, but also before it. Please note that a disease such as chordoma cannot be treated with chemotherapy.
After undergoing treatment, the patient should monitor his health and undergo a scheduled medical examination every three to six months. Each case is individual, so the specialist will find an individual approach to all patients.
Possible consequences
Chordoma of the base of the skull (ICD code - C41.0) very often continues to grow even after surgery and irradiation. The more cells cannot be removed, the greater the likelihood that the pathology will reoccur. According to statistics, about a quarter of all patients complained of the progression of this disease even after a full course of treatment therapy. Recurrent cases require reoperation.
Metastases form in about forty percent of cases. This type of cancer can go to various organs and their systems with the help of blood vessels. With repeated surgery, the risk of death increases several times.
Chordoma of the base of the skull: prognosis
Since this tumor-like formation cannot be completely removed, patients cannot completely recover. Therefore, all therapeutic methods are not fully effective. According to statistics, in the presence of such a disease and after surgery, the patient can live on average five years in 60% of cases, but to stretch about ten years - only 40%.
Moreover, all forecasts will directly depend on the size of the malignancy and the degree of its manifestation.
Prevention of malignant bone tumors
In fact, it’s very difficult to determine where a disease such as bone cancer comes from. Therefore, it is impossible to say exactly what measures should be taken for prevention. The only thing doctors can advise is to lead a correct lifestyle, and also contact a medical institution at the first symptoms of malaise. It does not matter what signs of the disease you have. Be sure to monitor the immune system. After all, it is she who is responsible for the state of the whole organism.
Finally
Chordoma of the base of the skull is a very dangerous disease, which quite often ends in death. To date, there is no method to completely eliminate this tumor formation. Surgical operations and radiation proton therapy cannot provide an absolute result, since most often a malignant formation cannot be completely removed. Therefore, in no case do not start the state of your health. If you suffer from headaches, nausea, high blood pressure and other symptoms, be sure to contact a medical institution.
If you discover chordoma at an early stage, you have a much greater chance of living happily your future life. In another case, you can’t even count on recovery. You can start changing your life today. After all, no one bothers you to eat right, go in for sports, and often visit the fresh air. It is in your power to get rid of your bad habits.
Remember, chordoma is not a sentence if you start treatment on time. Therefore, monitor your health with all responsibility and visit your doctor as often as possible. Be healthy and take care of yourself. And do not forget that our thoughts can work miracles, so always stay positive, not paying attention to life's barriers.