IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Chordoma - clivus

Case contributed by Frank Gaillard
Diagnosis certain
ct

Selected images from contrast-enhanced CT demonstrates clival destruction with a large soft tissue component extending anteriorly and appearing to occlude the nasopharynx. The mass is of relatively low attenuation (lower than the brain, slightly higher than CSF) and has spicules of bone within it. 

Case Discussion

The patient went on to have a biopsy. 

Histology

The biopsy consists of myxoid tissue containing polygonal cells with prominent cell borders and pink cytoplasm. Some of the cells are vacuolated. Immunohistochemistry has been carried out and this shows that the tumor cells stain strongly with both epithelial markers (pan-keratin, cam5.2, EMA) and with S100, typical of chordoma.

FINAL DIAGNOSIS: chordoma

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.