Spinal cord tumors are a complex and potentially serious condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. These tumors, although relatively rare, can develop within or around the spinal cord, causing various neurological symptoms.
Understanding the different types of spinal cord tumors, their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options is essential for early detection and effective management of this condition.
Table of Contents
Types of Spinal Cord Tumors
Spinal cord tumors can be classified into two broad categories:
Intradural Tumors
These tumors develop inside the spinal cord’s sheaths of defense. They consist of;
Intramedullary Tumors
These tumors form inside the spinal cord and typically come from nerve or support cells. Astrocytomas, ependymomas, and hemangioblastomas are a few examples of these.
Extramedullary Tumors
Extramedullary tumors are those that develop in the spinal canal but outside of the spinal cord. The membranes covering the spinal cord or the spinal nerve roots are where they normally develop. Examples include meningiomas, schwannomas, and neurofibromas.
Extradural Tumors
Extradural tumors develop away from the spinal cord and its sheath. They frequently develop from surrounding tissues or structures, such as bones, soft tissues, or malignancies that have spread from other sections of the body. Lymphomas, chordomas, and metastatic tumors are common extradural tumors.
Common Symptoms of Spinal Cord Tumors
Numerous symptoms that may differ based on the location, size, and rate of growth of the tumor can be brought on by spinal cord tumors. Typical signs include:
Radicular Pain
Radicular pain, which radiates down the route of the afflicted nerve, can be brought on by tumors that impact the spinal nerve roots. The corresponding bodily part may experience tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness in addition to this pain.
Back or Neck Pain
Dr. Muhammad Khalid who is one of the top spine surgeons in Pakistan says that persistent or worsening pain in the back or neck, particularly in the region of the tumor, is a common early symptom. The pain may be sharp, dull, or radiating.
Neurological Deficits
As the tumor compresses or invades the spinal cord, various neurological deficits may emerge. These can include weakness or paralysis of the limbs, loss of sensation, changes in coordination or balance, difficulty walking, and bladder or bowel dysfunction.
Spinal abnormalities
Spinal abnormalities, such as scoliosis (an abnormal curvature of the spine) or kyphosis (an excessive forward curving of the upper back), can occasionally result from spinal cord malignancies.
How are Spinal Cord Tumors Diagnosed?
Prompt diagnosis is essential for the proper management of suspected spinal cord malignancies and often entails the following steps:
Physical Examination and Medical History: To fully understand the symptoms, their course, and any underlying risk factors, the doctor will interview you for a thorough medical history. The neurological system, reflexes, and indications of spinal cord compression will all be evaluated during a complete physical examination.
Imaging Studies: Imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans are commonly used to visualize the spinal cord and detect the presence, location, and extent of the tumor. Experts at Avicenna Hospital say that these studies provide valuable information for treatment planning.
Biopsy: In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to determine the type and grade of the tumor accurately. A small sample of the tumor tissue is extracted and examined under a microscope by a pathologist.
Suggested Read: Bulging vs Herniated Disc
How to Treat Spinal Cord Tumors?
The treatment approach for spinal cord tumors depends on various factors, including the tumor type, size, location, and the individual’s overall health.
Radiation Therapy
High-energy X-rays or other types of radiation are used in radiation therapy to kill cancer cells and reduce tumor size. Dr. Afzal Hussain who is one of the best orthopedic and spine surgeons in Pakistan says that it can be applied prior to surgery to shrink tumors, after surgery to get rid of any cancer cells that persisted, or as the main course of treatment for tumors that are inoperable.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful medications to kill cancer cells. It may be administered orally, intravenously, or directly into the cerebrospinal fluid. Chemotherapy is typically used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy for certain types of spinal cord tumors, such as metastatic tumors or aggressive primary tumors.
Surgery
Surgical intervention is often the primary treatment for spinal cord tumors. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while preserving neurological function.
The surgical approach may involve partial or complete tumor resection, depending on the tumor’s characteristics and its relationship with surrounding structures.
In some cases, minimally invasive techniques or stereotactic radiosurgery may be employed to target the tumor with precision.
Suggested Read: Top 5 Common Spine Problems
When to See a Spine Surgeon
Spinal cord tumors are complex conditions that require careful evaluation, diagnosis, and management. Understanding the different types of spinal cord tumors, recognizing their symptoms, and seeking prompt medical attention is crucial for early intervention and improved outcomes. With advances in surgical techniques, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies, the prognosis for individuals with spinal cord tumors continues to improve.
To get an appointment with the best spine surgeons in Pakistan get help through Healthwire.
