What Causes a Spinal Cord Tumor?

Genetic and environmental factors are effective in the formation of spinal cord tumors. However, the exact cause is unknown. Chemicals radioactive contents can be a factor in the formation of the tumor. Another common cause is the spread of tumors in other parts of the body to the spinal cord.

What Are the Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Tumor?

The spinal cord structure is extremely important for the body. Disturbances in this area, which is one of the essential points of the nervous system, directly affect the body. A tumor that originates in the spinal cord can cause symptoms in many different parts of the body. The most obvious symptoms are a pain in the back and abdomen. In some periods, these pains are felt in the entire back region. The severity of the pain caused by the tumor is at a level that necessitates a doctor’s examination. The main symptoms are listed as follows;

• Pain in the back area
• Pain in the abdomen
• Tiredness
• Humpback
• Loss of balance
• Numbness in the body parts
• Difficulty walking

What Are the Types of Spinal Cord Tumors?

Tumors in the spinal cord region are divided into the intradural or extradural origin. These tumors are usually benign.

How Is Spinal Cord Tumor Diagnosed?

Many different tests are used to make the diagnosis. Before these tests, the patient’s health history is examined. The first test applied is MRI. It is the most valid method for determining the tumor mass. However, physicians may also request a tomography test. In this way, possible tumors located next to bony structures can be visualized. In addition, CT tests and bone scintigraphy can be used. If a tumor is found, a biopsy is performed. In this way, the type of tumor is detected. Treatment options are determined according to the biopsy result.

What is the Treatment of Spinal Cord Tumor?

There are three different treatment methods in the treatment of spinal cord tumors. These are;

• Surgical operation
• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy

Among these treatment methods, the most commonly used surgical operation. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are used as pre-and post-operative applications.

How Is Spinal Cord Tumor Surgery Performed?

When determining the methods of spinal cord tumor surgery, whether the tumor is benign or malignant is decisive. In a benign tumor operation, the entire tumor is removed. Malignant tumor operation is more sensitive. Additional precautions are taken to prevent spread to another region. The tumor removed with the help of small incisions in the body does not require open surgery. In the case of a tumor in the spinal cord, surgical operation conditions should be provided without losing time. The chance of success will increase as the tumor volume is kept small.