Chondromyxoid Fibroma of the Rib: A Rare Benign Tumor With Potential for Local Recurrence

Abstract

Chondromyxoid fibroma (CMF) is a benign cartilaginous tumor that typically occurs in the long bones of young adult males, with the clinical presentation varying from asymptomatic to localized pain, swelling, and movement restriction. We report an unusual presentation of CMF involving a rib, along with a literature review of the management of CMF. Although benign, local recurrence is not uncommon, and malignant transformation has been reported on rare occasions. En bloc surgical excision, with adequate tumor-free resection margins, of radiologically suspected chondromyxoid fibroma is crucial for the treatment and confirmation of diagnosis. A high index of suspicion, adequate treatment, and follow-up are critical for the successful management of these uncommon benign chondroid tumors.

Chondromyxoid fibroma: A rare benign tumor with potential for local recurrence

“…Management is challenging due to its recurrence but options range from simple curettage to curettage with phenol application, but en bloc resection with negative surgical margins is preferred because of the low recurrence rate compared to curette alone having 80%. 5 Recurrence is more common in younger age groups and often associated with higher quantities of myxoid stroma and cytological atypia as in the index case. 14 , 15 Although Jaffe and Lichtenstein in their initial description stated that recurrences were not common after incomplete removal, other series reported a 25% recurrence rate with curate and bone grafting which may be higher in young children.…”

“…4 Rib presentation is unusual with CMF, and to our knowledge, only a few have been reported. 5 Other unusual locations reported are temporal bone causing facial nerve palsy and zygoma. 6,7 Commonest sites are long bones, particularly of the lower extremity; proximal tibia and distal femur have the highest incidence.…”

Chondromyxoid fibroma of the cervical spine: A case report

“…This recurrence might result from incomplete tumour excision and leave pseudopod processes extending from the main tumour to the cavernous body (sutures) after simple curettage. Curettage plus bone grafting or cement fixation has a much lower recurrence rate of approximately 7%[ 17 ]. To prevent tumour recurrence, we performed total resection of the vertebral body and intervertebral disc, and internal fixation was performed to simultaneously maintain the stability of the entire spine.…”