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Spinal Tumor is a growth that develops within your spine or inside the bones of your spine. It can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Still, even benign spinal tumors can cause serious problems, ranging from disabling pain to paralysis.

Types of Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors are categorized based on their location within the spine. The three main types of spinal tumors are:

• Vertebral Column Tumors: These tumors occur in the vertebral column and grow either from the bone or disc elements of the spine. They can be either malignant or benign.

• Intradural-Extramedullary Tumors: These tumors grow within the spinal canal but outside the nerves. They are usually benign and slow-growing.

• Intramedullary Tumors: These tumors occur within the nerves of the spinal cord. They are usually benign, but can cause significant neurological complications.

Symptoms

The symptoms of spinal tumors vary depending on the type of tumor and its location. Common symptoms include:

• Back pain
• Loss of sensation in the arms or legs
• Difficulty walking
• Decreased sensitivity to pain, heat, and cold
• Loss of bowel or bladder function

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a spinal tumor begins with a physical examination and medical history. Additional tests may include:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This is the most common test to diagnose spinal tumors.
• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan can provide a detailed image of the spine and help identify tumors.
• Biopsy: A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope.

Treatment

Treatment options for spinal tumors depend on the type of tumor, its size and location, and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without causing significant damage to the surrounding spinal cord and nerves.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill tumor cells.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill tumor cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis for a spinal tumor varies greatly depending on the type of tumor, its location, and the patient's overall health. Early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis.

See Also

• Cancer
• Spinal Cord
• Tumor

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