Overview | Causes | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | FAQ
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). Benign tumors are noncancerous, and malignant tumors are cancerous. The CNS is housed 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. Tumors that originate in the brain or spinal cord are called primary tumors.
[top
Most primary tumors are caused by out-of-control growth among cells that
surround and support neurons. In a small number of individuals, 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 a mystery. They are not contagious
and, at this time, not preventable.
[top]
Spinal cord tumor symptoms include pain, sensory changes, and motor problems. Symptoms generally develop slowly and worsen over 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. Other symptoms include back pain, loss of sensation, muscle weakness, incontinence and muscle spasms.
[top]
The first test to diagnose brain and spinal column tumors is a examination. Special imaging techniques (computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography) are also employed. Laboratory tests include the EEG and the spinal tap. A biopsy, a surgical procedure in which a sample of tissue is taken from a suspected tumor, helps doctors diagnose the type of tumor.
The tumor may be classified as benign or malignant and given
a numbered score that reflects how malignant it is. This score can help
doctors determine how to treat the tumor and predict the likely outcome,
or prognosis, for the patient.
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.
The goal when treating spinal cord tumors is to minimize nerve damage related to compression of the spinal cord. The main priority is to administer treatment as quickly as possible to prevent progression. The three most commonly used treatments are surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Doctors also may prescribe steroids to reduce the swelling inside the CNS.
[top]
The earlier the spinal cord tumor is detected, the better the outlook. Without treatment, spinal tumors can lead to serious disability, paralysis and death.
[top]
Have back or neck pain? Learn what causes symptoms and the home remedies that relieve pain. Experts estimate that 50% of back surgeries are unnecessary. Fact: Many people can recover from painful disc-related symptoms with nonsurgical treatment options like a spinal injection that reduces inflammation around a nerve root or customized spine therapy.
The good news is that 80% of back and neck pain gets better on its own over time. Only a small percentage of patients will ever need spine surgery. Isn’t that a relief? Learn about non-surgical treatment options.
As a community service to those who live on Long Island, SpineCare Long Island mails out a free 36-page Home Remedy Book with customized stretches that can relieve some back and neck pain symptoms. Enter your name and address and we will mail you a copy.
Some symptoms can become permanent if you don’t see the physician within 24 hours. Find out when you can use “watchful waiting” and when you have an emergency symptom.
Spinecare Long Island is excited to announce the opening of our new, beautiful, comfortable, state-of-the-art facility in Holbrook, New York. The Holbrook location combines the expertise of board-certified spine surgeons and interventional pain management specialists.
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our team at 833-774-6333.