Spinal Cord Tumor

Growths in the spinal cord can cause serious problems. These growths, called spinal tumors, can develop within the spinal canal, the bones of the spine (vertebrae), or inside the spinal cord itself. Tumors that start inside the spinal cord are called intramedullary tumors. These tumors grow from the supporting cells (glial cells) within the spinal cord's structure. Other types of spinal tumors can develop in the coverings of the spinal cord or the spaces around it.

Intramedullary tumors are a specific type of spinal cord tumor. They begin inside the spinal cord itself, often from abnormal cells like those found in gliomas, astrocytomas, or ependymomas. These are not the only types of spinal tumors, though.

Tumors in the spine, no matter where they start, can lead to a variety of problems. These can include pain, issues with movement and feeling (neurological problems), and even paralysis. A spinal tumor can be a serious medical concern, possibly life-threatening, and can result in permanent disability.

Treatment for spinal tumors depends on the type of tumor, its location, and its size. Doctors may use surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy to shrink it, chemotherapy to kill cancer cells, or other medications to manage symptoms.

Spinal cord tumors can cause various problems, especially as they grow. These tumors can affect the spinal cord itself, the nerves branching off it, blood vessels, or the bones of the spine. This can lead to a range of symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms:

• Pain: A common early symptom is pain at the tumor site, which often spreads to other parts of the body, like the hips, legs, feet, or arms. The pain might be worse at night. This pain can worsen over time, even with treatment.
• Sensory changes: You might feel less sensitive to pain, heat, or cold.
• Loss of function: Problems with bowel or bladder control can occur. Muscle weakness, ranging from mild to severe, can develop in various parts of the body, affecting your ability to walk and potentially leading to falls. Loss of sensation in your arms or legs is another possible symptom.
• Location of the pain: The pain may start in the back and radiate outwards.

When to see a doctor:

Many things can cause back pain, and most back pain isn't from a tumor. However, it's crucial to see your doctor if your back pain:

• Persists and gets worse over time: This is a key warning sign.
• Isn't related to activity: If the pain isn't made worse by movement or exertion, it's worth investigating.
• Is worse at night: Night pain can be a significant indicator.
• Develops after a history of cancer: If you've had cancer before, new back pain needs attention.
• Comes with other possible cancer symptoms: Other symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or dizziness could be related.

When to seek immediate medical attention:

If you experience any of these:

• Progressive muscle weakness or numbness: Especially in your arms or legs, this is a serious and potentially urgent issue.
• Changes in bowel or bladder function: This could indicate a serious problem requiring immediate evaluation.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and does not constitute medical advice. If you have concerns about back pain or other symptoms, please consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Back pain is common, and most cases aren't due to a tumor. However, early detection is key for spinal tumors. See a doctor if your back pain:

• Keeps happening and gets worse over time: This means the pain isn't just occasional. It's a pain that steadily increases.
• Isn't related to activity: If your pain isn't connected to lifting something heavy or doing strenuous exercise, it could be a sign of something more serious.
• Gets worse at night: Pain that intensifies when you're resting could signal an underlying issue.
• Starts after you've had cancer before: If you've had cancer in the past and experience new back pain, it's important to get checked out.
• Comes with other cancer-like symptoms: These could include feeling sick to your stomach (nausea), throwing up (vomiting), or feeling dizzy.

Seek immediate medical help if you notice:

• Your muscles are getting weaker, or you're losing feeling in your legs or arms: This is a serious symptom that needs immediate attention.
• Changes in how your bowels or bladder work: Problems with bowel or bladder function can be a sign of a serious medical condition.

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The human spine and spinal cord

The spinal cord is a long, thin bundle of nerves that runs inside the spinal canal. This canal is a hollow space created by the bones of the spine (vertebrae). The spinal cord starts at the base of the skull and goes all the way down to the lower part of the back.

Scientists don't fully understand why most spinal tumors happen. A common idea is that faulty genes are involved. However, it's often unclear if these genetic problems are passed down from parents or if they occur later in life. Environmental factors, like exposure to certain chemicals, could also play a role. In some cases, though, specific inherited conditions, like neurofibromatosis type 2 and von Hippel-Lindau syndrome, are directly connected to spinal tumors.

Spinal cord tumors can sometimes be linked to certain inherited conditions. Here are two examples:

• Neurofibromatosis 2 (NF2): This is a condition where non-cancerous (benign) tumors grow on or near the nerves connected to your hearing. These tumors can cause hearing loss, possibly in one or both ears. In some people with NF2, these tumors can also form within the spinal column. It's important to understand that while hearing loss is a common symptom, not everyone with NF2 will develop spinal cord tumors.

• Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease: This is a rare condition that affects many parts of the body. One characteristic of VHL is the growth of tumors, called hemangioblastomas, in blood vessels. These blood vessel tumors can occur in the brain, retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye), and the spinal cord. VHL can also cause other kinds of tumors in organs like the kidneys or adrenal glands. It's crucial to know that VHL doesn't always lead to spinal cord tumors, and the specific symptoms and severity can vary significantly from person to person.

Sometimes, spinal tumors are missed because they're uncommon and their symptoms can be similar to other, more common health problems. This is why it's crucial for your doctor to know your complete medical history and conduct a thorough physical and neurological exam.

If your doctor suspects a spinal tumor, several tests can help confirm the diagnosis and pinpoint its location:

1. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging):

An MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your spine, spinal cord, and nerves. It's often the best test for finding tumors in the spinal cord and surrounding areas. During the MRI, a special dye (contrast agent) might be injected into a vein in your arm. This dye helps the images show certain tissues more clearly.

Some people feel anxious or claustrophobic inside the MRI machine, or they find the loud noises bothersome. To help with these issues, earplugs are usually provided, and some machines have TVs or headphones. If you're very worried, talk to your doctor about taking a mild medicine to relax you. In some cases, a general anesthetic might be needed.

2. CT (Computed Tomography):

A CT scan uses a narrow beam of X-rays to create images of your spine. Sometimes, a special dye is injected to highlight any unusual areas in the spinal canal or spinal cord. CT scans are not typically the first choice for diagnosing spinal tumors, but they might be used in some situations.

3. Biopsy:

The only way to know exactly what kind of tumor is present is to take a small tissue sample (a biopsy). A pathologist examines this sample under a microscope. The results of this biopsy are important because they help doctors decide on the best treatment plan.