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).The presence of a tumor in the spinal area is extremely serious. These tumors may or may not be painful, which is why it is important to see a spine specialist when back or neck pain persists for more than a week. A tumor can place pressure on nearby nerve roots, which will cause pain.
Causes:
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.
Symptoms:
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.
Treatment:
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.
Causes:
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.
Symptoms:
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.
Treatment:
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.
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