TBX1 and chordoma: However, re-evaluation of all specimens demonstrated pan-keratin positivity, loss of INI-1, and nuclear brachyury expression, prompting revision of the diagnosis to poorly differentiated chordoma.<h4>Results & conclusion</h4>This case underscores the importance of early brachyury testing in INI-1-deficient axial or paraspinal epithelioid tumors to avoid misdiagnosis and guide appropriate management.