Description
Spinal cord tumors can be primary and arise from the spinal cord or its linings, or secondary and come from cancer that has spread from other parts of the body (metastases). Symptoms arise when the tumor compresses the spinal cord or nerve roots of the spinal cord. The severity and location of the symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor in the spinal cord.
Symptoms
Weakness, numbness and tingling, unstable gait, loss of bowel or bladder control. The location of the symptoms depends on the location of the tumor in the spine.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan and MRI will identify the location of the spinal cord tumor and the amount of impingement on the cord. A biopsy of the tumor may be done to identify the type of cancer.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan and MRI will identify the location of the spinal cord tumor and the amount of impingement on the cord. A biopsy of the tumor may be done to identify the type of cancer.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Blood and Cancer Care (hematology and oncology), Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Pediatric Neurosurgery
Treatment
Therapy depends on the extent and location of the tumor. If it is malignant, the specific therapy will be guided by the results of the biopsy. Medications include: short course of corticosteroids, and pain medications.