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Paraspinal chordoma mimicking a neurofibroma: a rare but important radiological pitfall

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Abstract

We present an unusual case of a chordoma presenting as an extradural spinal tumour with extension through an expanded intervertebral foramen to form a large paraspinal mass. The magnetic resonance imaging appearances closely mimicked a neurofibroma; however, pre-operative biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of chordoma. This is, to our knowledge, the tenth reported case of chordoma presenting as a mass expanding the intervertebral foramen. Thus, while it is a rare form of chordoma, it can lead to a recognised radiological pitfall. Making the distinction from neurofibroma before surgery is essential, as radical dissection of chordoma is required to reduce the risk of local recurrence.

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  1. Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, Sheffield, S10 2JF, UK

    Nikhil Kotnis & John Goepel

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  1. Nikhil Kotnis
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  2. John Goepel
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Correspondence to Nikhil Kotnis.

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Kotnis, N., Goepel, J. Paraspinal chordoma mimicking a neurofibroma: a rare but important radiological pitfall. Skeletal Radiol 42, 443–446 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-012-1532-0

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-012-1532-0

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