Spinal cord tumors develop along the spine - the column of bones that runs from your skull to your tailbone. Tumors that begin in the spine are called primary tumors.
Secondary, or metastatic, tumors occur when cancers spread to the spine from somewhere else in the body. Spinal cord tumor symptoms include:
- Inability to move (paralysis)
- Loss of bladder or bowel function
- Numbness
- Pain
- Trouble with balance or walking
- Weakness
Experts classify spinal cord tumors according to what section of the spine they're in and where they occur within the spine. Sections of the spine include:
- Cervical spine: Upper spine and neck
- Lumbar spine: Lower spine
- Sacrum: Base of the spine that connects to the pelvis
- Thoracic spine: Middle part of the spine
Doctors grade spinal cord tumors based on their location and how quickly they're growing. We also look at whether cancer is spreading to other parts of the body. We use this information to decide how to treat you.
Our neuro-oncology team treats all types of spinal cord tumors in people of all ages. We treat:
Intradural-extramedullary spinal cord tumors
These spinal cord tumors begin inside the spinal cord's covering (dura). They include:
- Ependymomas: Tumors that begin in ependymal cells. Ependymal cells are one type of support cell for the brain and spinal cord (glial cells).
- Meningiomas: Cancer forms in the layers of tissue that protect the spinal cord.
- Neurofibromas: Noncancerous (benign) tumors that develop in the cells covering nerves.
- Schwannomas: Tumors begin in the cells that insulate the brain and spinal cord's nerves (Schwann cells).
Intramedullary spinal cord tumors
Intramedullary tumors are tumors that grow inside the spinal cord. These tumors usually develop in glial cells or ependymal cells. Intramedullary tumors include:
- Astrocytomas: Tumors that begin in certain glial cells known as astrocytes.
- Ependymomas: Tumors that start in ependymal cells.
Extradural spinal cord tumors
These tumors begin outside the spinal cord's dura. Extradural tumors are more likely to be metastatic spinal cord tumors.
Our specialists also test functions such as:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Reflexes
- Strength
We may also do:
- Biopsy
- Stereotactic biopsy
- Surgical biopsy
- Imaging testsLumbar puncture (spinal tap)
We may refer you to a 果冻视频 neurosciences expert for further examination. We may also send biopsy samples to a laboratory to learn about any genetic changes to cells. We use these results to develop your personalized treatment plan.
Our experts rely on many different cancer treatments to treat spinal cord tumors. We use:
Nonsurgical treatments for spinal cord tumors
- Chemotherapy
- Embolization
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
Surgery to treat spinal cord tumors
- Placing a shunt
- Ventricular access catheter
Our experts and partners also research new ways to treat cancer. Please read about our work at 果冻视频 Research Center.