Chondroblastoma

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Chondroblastoma

Chondroblastoma is a rare type of non-cancerous tumor that develops in the cartilage at the end of long bones, especially near arm bones at the shoulder and near leg bones at the hip or knee. The tumors likely start in immature cells that produce cartilage, the flexible connective tissue that protects joints and bones.

Risk and symptoms

Chondroblastoma can affect people of any age, but it is most often seen in children and young adults. About 80% of cases are males under age 25. The most common symptoms are pain, joint stiffness, fluid in the joints, and muscle loss. Since the tumor is within the bone, there is not a lump or mass that can be felt.

Treatment at UAB

UAB Orthopaedics operates the Musculoskeletal Joint and Oncologic Surgery Clinic, which uses a team approach to care for patients with issues in the bones or soft tissue, including cancer. These physicians use the most advanced technology to diagnose, evaluate, and treat patients. They work closely with patients to help them understand their case, make more informed medical decisions, and provide personalized care every step of the way.

The clinic is part of the UAB O’Neal Comprehensive Cancer Center, which is ranked as the best hospital for cancer care in Alabama and among the top 25 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Appointments are available within a week or less.

Our expertise

UAB Medicine is home to the only two fellowship-trained musculoskeletal cancer surgeons in the state. Our medical center is the largest in Alabama, so patients have access to recognized experts in many medical specialties.

Because UAB is designated as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute, patients may be able to take part in clinical research trials of promising new cancer therapies. UAB is the only hospital in the region that offers surgical treatment for soft tissue and bone tumors of the extremities and pelvis.

The board-certified physicians in the Musculoskeletal Joint and Oncologic Surgery Clinic have years of training in orthopaedic surgery and musculoskeletal oncology. They are leaders in their field and often are included among the “Best Doctors in America” and “Top Doctors for Cancer” lists. They are active members in professional organizations, including: