INTRODUCTION Collision tumours, defined as the simultaneous occurrence of two distinct
neoplasms within the same anatomical location, are exceptionally rare in the clivus.
The coexistence of chordoma and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) within the clivus
has not been previously reported, making this case particularly noteworthy.
CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 69-year-old woman with a known history
of stable CLL who presented with a 3-month history of progressive right-sided horizontal
diplopia and hemianopsia. Imaging revealed a large sellar/suprasellar lesion with
significant involvement of both cavernous sinuses, prompting surgical intervention.
An endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal and transclival approach was utilized to achieve
near-total mass resection, with a small remnant left in the right cavernous sinus
due to its proximity to the internal carotid artery. Histopathological examination
confirmed the presence of a collision tumour composed of chordoma and CLL.
CONCLUSION: This case represents the first reported instance of a collision tumor
involving a chordoma and CLL within the clivus. The patient’s postoperative course
was uneventful, and she remains stable at 3-month follow-up after receiving adjuvant
radiotherapy. The rarity of such a collision tumor underscores the need for heightened
clinical suspicion and thorough pathological evaluation in cases presenting with atypical
skull base lesions. The involvement of a multidisciplinary team was crucial in the
management and favorable outcome of this complex case.
