Pathogenesis (disease development)
Chondroblastoma (Codman tumor) originates from chondroblasts (cartilage-forming cells). It forms a cartilaginous matrix (“immature cartilage“) with calcifications (calcifications). Chondroblastoma also contains giant cells, but is to be distinguished from giant cell tumor.
It originates in the secondary ossification centers (= “bone nuclei”) of the epiphyses, which develop before the ossification of the epiphyseal joints (growth plates). The physiological ossification process starts from these centers. Ultimately, a chondroblastoma is a misregulation of cell growth processes.
Etiology (causes)
The exact causes of chondroblastoma are still unclear.
