Spinal Cord Tumors

A tumor is an abnormal or uncontrolled growth of tissue or cells. Spinal cord tumors are tumors that grow in or around the spine or spinal cord, the bundle of nerves that carries nerve impulses between the brain and the rest of the body. Spinal cord tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Tumors that originate in the spinal cord are called primary. Tumors that are caused by the spread of cancer in another area of the body (metastatic) are called secondary tumors. Primary spinal cord tumors include:

Astrocytoma;
Ependymoma;
Meningioma;
Neurofibromas; and
Schwannomas.

Metastatic tumors that spread to the spinal cord are most commonly caused by:

Lung cancer;
Breast cancer;
Lymphoma (cancer of the lymphatic system);
Prostate cancer;
Kidney cancer; and
Thyroid cancer.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

Spinal cord tumors typically cause symptoms by putting pressure on the nerves or the nerve roots in the spinal cord. Common symptoms include:

Back pain;
Pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness;
Spasticity;
Loss of coordination;
Decreased or absent sensations (hot, cold); and
Problems with control of the bladder or bowels.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

The cause of most spinal cord tumors is unknown. Some spinal cord tumors are hereditary, including neurofibromas.

Factors that may possibly increase the risk of developing a spinal cord tumor include exposure to radiation or certain chemicals.

DIAGNOSIS

Tests physicians use to diagnose spinal cord tumors include:

Neurological examination;
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
Computed tomography (CT) scan;
Myelogram;
Blood test;
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis;
Biopsy; and
Spinal x ray.

TREATMENT APPROACH

Treatment for spinal cord tumors depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as if it has spread. Treatment aims to completely remove the tumor, relieve spinal cord compression, and restore as much neurological function as possible. Treatment of spinal cord tumors typically includes medication, surgical procedures, embolization, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, often in combination.

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