A case of rapidly increasing chondrosarcoma of the rib after biopsy

A 67-year-old man showed a gradually increasing mass of the anterior chest wall. Chest CT demonstrated an invasive multilocular cystic tumor that was 70 mm in diameter and originated from the 9th rib. Pathological findings on tumor biopsy revealed chondrosarcoma (Grade 1~2). Eighteen days after the incision biopsy, chest CT clearly demonstrated enlargement of the tumor, at 73 mm in diameter. Surgical resection was performed to remove the chondrosarcoma combined with the 8th rib, 9th rib, and part of the diaphragm. Reconstruction of the chest wall was performed using Marlex Mesh. No signs of recurrence were noted as of 12 months after the surgery. We encountered a case of rapidly increasing chondrosarcoma of the rib after biopsy. After incision biopsy, early surgery should be considered for the avoidance of rapid tumor progression. Excision as extensive as possible is considered important.