Skull Base Chondroma

What is a chondroma?

Chondromas are very rare benign tumors made of bone cartilage found in the skull. Both the skull base and the paranasal sinuses contain cartilage. Chondromas can develop in this cartilage, typically in people between the ages of 10 and 30.

These tumors grow slowly, but eventually may cause the bone to fracture or grow too much, creating pressure on the brain. In rare instances, chondromas may develop into a cancerous condition called chondrosarcomas.

Symptoms of a chondroma:

The following are the most common symptoms of chondroma. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently.

When a chondroma develops, it may cause any or all of the following:

• visual changes
• headache

Diagnosis of a chondroma:

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for chondroma may include X-ray, CT scan or MRI to determine the size and location of the tumor. Learn more about diagnosing skull base tumors.

Treatment for a chondroma:

Surgery, usually endonasal endoscopic surgery, is the most common treatment for chondromas. Radiation therapy may be performed after surgery. Learn more about treatment for skull base brain tumors.

To make an appointment or request a consultation, contact the Johns Hopkins Skull Base Tumor Center at 410-614-0585.