Headaches can feel quite obvious when you have a hectic routine. But sometimes, the headache that you ignore can also be a sign of something more dangerous. Chordoma is a rare type of bone cancer that can develop from the leftover cells in your notochord. The notochord is a structure that is present during the early development of your spine. Chordoma most commonly starts in this very area or at the base of your skull and progresses gradually without specific signals.
Symptoms you should watch for
Chordoma often develops gradually, so the early signs can appear very normal. This is why you need to pay closer attention to these signs if you feel the discomfort continuing for a longer time.
Continuous back pain or neck pain.
Extreme headaches when the tumor is near the base of your skull.
Nerve issues such as blurred vision, unexplained numbness, or difficulty in swallowing.
A noticeable lump or swelling in your infected area.
Causes
Chordoma develops because of the leftover cells in your notochord. In some cases, these undeveloped cells can disappear before the birth itself. But sometimes, they can stay back in your body and later form into a tumor. This is why chordoma is very rare and is not usually linked to your lifestyle or environmental factors
Diagnosis and treatment
You may have to go through a series of tests to understand the stage and cause of your chordoma; only then can doctors choose the diagnosis and an accurate treatment plan.
An MRI or a CT scan can be used to locate the tumor in your body and understand its size.
A biopsy can confirm the diagnosis by examining a sample of the tumor.
Surgery can be considered the primary treatment option to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
Radiation therapy can be used to target the remaining cells after therapy.
Targeted therapy can also be effective in killing cancer cells precisely.
Challenges you should be aware of
The slow growth of chrodoma can make it difficult for you to catch it in the first place. Also, because it occurs mostly near your skull and/or in your spine, the complete removal of the tumor can sometimes not be possible. This can also increase your chances of the cancer’s relapsing. This is why you need to stay updated on your health and monitor yourself, even after your treatment, to avoid complications.
Early attention for quick recovery
Chordoma can be confusing at times when it’s difficult to differentiate its symptoms from the normal ones. But by paying attention to your health, you can start your diagnosis early and recover better without worrying about any complications.