Soft-tissue Chondroma Masquerading as Chondroid Syringoma - A Case Report

Introduction: Soft-tissue chondromas are rare, benign cartilaginous tumors predominantly affecting the extremities, often diagnosed in middle-aged individuals without a clear sex predilection. Despite their benign nature, these tumors can pose significant diagnostic challenges due to their slow growth, asymptomatic nature, and potential for mimicking other soft-tissue tumors.

Case report: We report a case of a 27-year-old male with an 8-year history of a progressively enlarging mass on the dorsal aspect of the second toe of the left foot, leading to pain, difficulty in walking, and wearing shoes. Initial clinical examination revealed a firm, non-tender swelling with hypoesthesia over the affected area. Radiographic findings suggested a soft-tissue mass with stippled calcification, while magnetic resonance imaging indicated a large altered signal intensity lesion abutting but not arising from the bone. Fine needle aspiration cytology hinted at a benign mixed tumor/chondroid syringoma. An excisional biopsy was performed, revealing a well-circumscribed tumor with lobules of mature hyaline cartilage, consistent with a diagnosis of soft-tissue chondroma. Post-operative period recovery was uneventful except for local flap necrosis which was managed with skin grafting. There was no recurrence at the 1-year follow-up.

Conclusion: Soft-tissue chondromas, while rare and benign, can significantly impact patients' quality of life. Correct diagnosis, involving a comprehensive evaluation and histopathological confirmation, is crucial for effective management and prevention of unnecessary interventions. This case adds valuable insight into the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management strategies for soft-tissue chondromas.