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Home >> Spine Problems >> Spinal Tumor Spinal Tumor The presence of a tumor in the spinal area is extremely serious. These tumors may or may not be painful, which is why it is important to see a spine specialist when back or neck pain persists for more than a week. A tumor can place pressure on nearby nerve roots, which will cause pain. Overview Spinal cord tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found inside the bony spinal column, which is one of the primary components of the central nervous system (CNS). Noncancerous tumors are known as benign and cancerous tumors are known as malignant. The CNS resides within rigid, bony quarters (i.e., the skull and spinal column), so any abnormal growth, whether benign or malignant, can place pressure on sensitive tissues and impair function. A tumor that originates in the brain or spinal cord is known as a primary tumor. Causes The majority of primary tumors are caused by out-of-control growth among cells that surround and support neurons. Infrequently, primary tumors may result from specific genetic disease (e.g., neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis) or from exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. The cause of most primary tumors remains unknown. They are not contagious nor are they preventable at this point. Symptoms Frequent symptoms of a spinal cord tumor include pain, sensory changes, and motor problems. Typically, symptoms will develop gradually and worsen with time unless they are treated. Tumors within the spinal cord usually cause symptoms over large areas of the body, while tumors outside the spinal cord may grow for some time before causing nerve damage. Back pain, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, incontinence and muscle spasms may be other indicators of a spinal cord tumor. Diagnosis A neurological examination is usually the first test used to diagnose brain and spinal column tumors. Special imaging techniques (computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography) are also utilized. Laboratory tests include the EEG and the spinal tap. Doctors diagnose the type of tumor by conducting a biopsy, a surgical procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from a suspected tumor. The tumor may be determined as benign or malignant and if malignant, assigned a number based on degree of malignancy. This will help doctors determine how to treat the tumor and predict the likely result, or prognosis, for the patient.
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Diagnostic Tools Outlined below are some of the diagnostic tools that your physician may use to gain insight into your condition and determine the best treatment plan for your condition. Medical history: Performing a detailed medical history allows the doctor improved understanding of the possible causes of your back and neck pain. Moreover, this knowledge may help outline the most appropriate treatment. Physical exam: The physical exam is helpful in allowing your physician to isolate the source of pain. Simple tests for flexibility and muscle strength may also be conducted. X-rays: Usually the initial step in diagnostic testing methods. While x-rays show bones and the space between bones, they are of limited value because they do not show muscles and ligaments. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Involves magnetic field and radio waves to produce highly detailed pictures of the inside of your body. As x-rays only show bones, MRIs are necessary to envision soft tissues like discs in the spine. This type of imaging is very safe and usually pain-free. CT scan/myelogram: Comparable to an MRI, a CT scan provides diagnostic information about the internal structures of the spine. A myelogram is engaged to diagnose a bulging disc, tumor, or changes in the bones surrounding the spinal cord or nerves. A local anesthetic is injected into the low back to numb the area. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is then performed. A dye is injected into the spinal canal to reveal where problems exist. Electrodiagnostics: As part of a diagnostic workup, electrical testing of the nerves and spinal cord may be performed. These tests, called electromyography (EMG) or somato sensory evoked potentials (SSEP), help your doctor understand how your nerves or spinal cord are affected by your condition. Bone scan: In an effort to detect infection, malignancy, fractures and arthritis in any part of the skeleton, bone imaging is used. Bone scans are also helpful in locating lesions for biopsy or excision. Discography: Used to determine the internal structure of a disc. It is performed via local anesthetic and by injecting a dye into the disc under X-ray guidance. Both X-ray and CT scan are performed to establish whether disc composition is normal or abnormal. Additionally, your doctor will note any pain associated with this injection. The benefit of a discography is that it enables the physician to verify the disc level that is causing your pain. This exam helps reduces the risk of operating on the wrong disc as well as ensures surgery will be more successful. Injections: Pain-relieving injections help relieve back pain and give the physician important information about your problem, as well as provide a bridge therapy.
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Treatment The goal when treating spinal cord tumors is to minimize nerve damage related to compression of the spinal cord. It is key to administer treatment as quickly as possible to prevent progression. The three most commonly used treatments are surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The doctor to decrease swelling inside the CNS may prescribe steroids. FAQ What are some of the symptoms of spinal cord tumors?
What is the prognosis? Early spinal cord tumor detection helps create a better outlook. If treatment is not administered, spinal tumors may lead to serious disability, paralysis and death. |
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