Temporal Bone Chondroblastoma: a Rare Entity

Abstract

Introduction: Chondroblastoma is an uncommon benign, locally destructive tumor that usually arises from epiphyses of the long bones. Temporal bone chondroblastoma is an extremely rare occurrence. Chondroblastoma arise from immature cartilage cells and it may display certain malignant features by invading surrounding structures and metastasizing to adjacent sites.

Aim: To present a case of extradural temporal bone chondroblastoma and discuss the clinical presentation, radiographic findings, histology and particularly the surgical management of the case.

Case report: We report a case of a 31-year-old man who presented with a painless left temporal swelling and left sided hearing loss for four months. Computed tomography (CT) scan revealed an aggressive mass involving the left preauricular region with temporal mastoid bone erosion. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed an extra-axial left temporal mastoid mass pushing the left temporal lobe superiorly. The patient underwent complete excision of the temporal bone tumor. The final histopathological diagnosis was in keeping with chondroblastoma.

Conclusion: Temporal bone chondroblastoma is rare but an aggressive condition. Complete tumor resection via an appropriate approach that enables adequate exposure will lead to a favorable outcome.

Keywords: Chondroblastoma; Management; Surgical excision; Temporal bone.

Figure 1.. Preoperative image showing left temporal mass A) Posterior view B) Anterior view

Figure 2.. Radiological scan A) MRI temporal–axial view T1 weighted B) CT scan temporal–axial view. Soft tissue tumor over the left temporal region causing compression of the temporal lobe and local bony erosion.

Figure 3.. Intraoperative image showing A) Tumor site post excision B) Reconstruction of defect with Temporal Flap (Asterisks : Exposed dura ; Dotted yellow lines : Bony defect secondary to tumor invasion )