Spinal Tumours

Overview

Spinal tumours, also known as spinal neoplasms, are abnormal growths that develop within or near the spinal column. These tumours can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They can originate from various tissues within the spine, including the bones, nerves, spinal cord coverings (meninges), or the surrounding soft tissues.

Causes

The exact cause of spinal tumours is unknown, but some factors may increase your risk, such as:

• Age: Spinal tumours are more common in adults over the age of 50.
• Family history: A family history of spinal tumours may increase your risk.
• Certain genetic conditions: Some genetic conditions, such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis, can increase your risk of developing spinal tumours.
• Radiation exposure: Exposure to high levels of radiation may increase your risk of developing spinal tumours.

Symptoms

Symptoms of spinal tumours can vary depending on their location, size, and type. Common signs and symptoms include:

• Back or neck pain: Persistent pain that worsens over time, often not relieved with rest or typical pain medications.
• Neurological deficits:Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the extremities due to compression of the spinal cord or nerves.
• Loss of sensation or bowel/bladder dysfunction: Severe compression of the spinal cord can lead to a loss of sensation, as well as urinary or bowel incontinence.
• Difficulty walking: Spinal tumours affecting the spinal cord may result in gait disturbances or difficulty with coordination.

Diagnosis

To diagnose a spinal tumour, your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your medical history. They may also order imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans, to visualise the spine and identify the presence, location, and extent of the tumour.

Treatment

Treatment for spinal tumours depends on several factors, including the tumour type, location, size, and whether it is benign or malignant. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgical removal of the tumour, either through traditional open surgery or minimally invasive techniques, can be performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.
• Radiotherapy: High-energy rays are used to target and destroy cancer cells or reduce the size of the tumour.
• Chemotherapy: Medications are administered to treat cancer or slow down tumour growth.
• Supportive care: Pain management, physical therapy, and rehabilitation can be provided to improve quality of life and functional outcomes.

Benefits Of Treatment

Treating spinal tumours can help to:

• Relieve pain and other symptoms
• Prevent further damage to the spinal cord or nerves
• Improve neurological function
• Increase survival rates

Risks Of Treatment

All treatments have some risks, but the risks of treating spinal tumours are generally low. Conservative treatments, such as pain medication and physical therapy, have very few risks. More invasive treatments, such as surgery and radiation therapy, carry more risks, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage.

Recovery

The recovery time from spinal tumours will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment received. Most people who are treated with conservative methods are able to return to their normal activities within a few weeks or months. People who have surgery may need to wear a back brace for several months and may have to restrict their activities for several months.

Prevention

There is no known way to completely prevent spinal tumours, but there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding smoking
• Exercising regularly
• Eating a healthy diet

If you have any concerns about spinal tumours, please make an appointment.

We understand that being diagnosed with a spinal tumour can be a scary experience. We want to assure you that there are treatment options available, and we will work with you to develop a plan that is best for your individual needs.