Benign Notochordal Cell Tumor of the Sacrum with Atypical Imaging Features: The Value of CT Guided Biopsy for Diagnosis

Abstract

We report a case of a benign notochordal cell tumor (BNCT) of the sacrum with atypical imaging features, which was incidentally discovered in a 74-year-old man undergoing evaluation for progressively worsening hip and back pain. It is important for radiologists, pathologists and orthopedic surgeons to be aware of the diagnosis of BNCT and be familiar with its radiographic features to avoid unnecessary treatment. This case illustrates the advantage of percutaneous computed tomography (CT)-guided biopsy as a minimally invasive technique for definitive diagnosis of a BNCT with atypical imaging features.

Benign Notochordal Cell Tumours: Case Report and Literature Review

“…Histological analysis, an important part of the establishment of the diagnosis of a BNCT, often reveals the characteristic notochordal cell morphology. However, as seen in this case, histological features may not always be definitive, and ancillary techniques, such as immunohistochemistry, may be required to confirm the diagnosis [10]. The difficulties in the morphological diagnostics can be attributable to the focality and small size of the lesion, making it difficult to obtain a representative sample.…”

Management of Chordoma of the Sacrum and Mobile Spine

“…Correlating imaging findings with histological findings using biopsy is vital to confirm the diagnosis of chordoma 44 . The recommended mode of biopsy is a trocar, CT-guided core needle biopsy 2,45,46 .…”

Modern approach to the treatment of sacrococcygeal chordomas

“…Единственным достоверным методом диагностики хордом является патоморфологическое исследование биопсийного материала, включающее иммуногисто химическое исследование, при котором выявляется специфический белок brachyury [24] (рис. 4).…”