Definition
Chondrosarcoma is a type of cancer. It grows in cartilage cells in the body. Cartilage is the connective tissue. Most bones are created from cartilage. It is found in many areas of the body.
This cancer is typically found in the cartilage cells of the femur, arm, pelvis, knee, and spine. Rarely, the ribs and other areas may also be affected.
The condition is uncommon. It is the second most common type of bone cancer . It most often strikes between the ages of 50-70. Chondrosarcoma rarely strikes individuals younger than 20.
Cancer occurs when cells in the body divide without control or order. If cells keep dividing uncontrollably, a mass of tissue forms. This is called a growth or tumor. The term cancer refers to malignant tumors. They can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
As with all cancers, the prognosis or outcome depends upon how large the tumor is and whether it has spread to distant structures.