Spinal cord tumor

Spinal Cord Tumor

A Spinal cord tumor is a noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant) growth in or surrounding the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a long, thin, tubular structure made up of nervous tissue, which extends from the medulla oblongata in the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column.

Types of Spinal Cord Tumors

Spinal cord tumors can be classified into three main types based on their location:

• Intramedullary tumors: These tumors begin in the cells within the spinal cord itself, such as gliomas, astrocytomas, or ependymomas.
• Intradural-Extramedullary tumors: These tumors grow within the spinal cord covering (meninges) but outside the cord. Examples include meningiomas, schwannomas, and neurofibromas.
• Extradural tumors: These are the most common spinal tumors that occur in the bones and tissues around the spinal cord, often metastasizing from other parts of the body.

Symptoms

The symptoms of spinal cord tumors vary and depend on the specific location and the rate of growth. Some common symptoms include:

• Back pain or pain that radiates to other parts of the body
• Loss of sensation or muscle weakness in the legs, arms, or chest
• Stiffness or difficulty walking
• Decreased sensitivity to pain, heat, and cold

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of spinal cord tumors involves a thorough medical examination, including a neurological examination. Imaging tests such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT scan (Computed Tomography), and Myelogram may be used. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant.

Treatment

Treatment options for spinal cord tumors depend on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or medications to manage symptoms.

See Also

• Brain tumor
• Neurofibromatosis
• Neurology
• Oncology

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