Metastatic tumors are cancers that have spread to the spine from a primary location, such as the breast, lungs, or prostate. These cancer cells travel through the blood and lymph system, causing a new tumor in a different part of the body. These types of tumors are more serious than primary cancers because they are more aggressive and spread throughout the entire body. Cancer can develop in any part of the spine, including the bones and soft tissues that surround them.
Bone tumors typically originate in the long bones of the body, such as the neck and back. The most common form of bone cancer is osteosarcoma, which typically develops on the ends of long bones in children and teens. Other types of cancer that can affect the bones and cause tumors in the spinal cord include multiple myeloma, which develops from white blood cells and causes tumors throughout many parts of the body. Most spinal tumors are not symptomatic, but treatment is often necessary to stop the tumor’s growth. In some cases, benign tumors that aren’t cancerous are only treated with surgery.
The treatment of spinal tumours will depend on the stage of the cancer and the type of tumor. Surgical resection is the main treatment option, but some patients may require physical therapy afterward to regain muscle strength and independent function. Treatment will depend on the type of spinal tumor and its location, but early diagnosis and intervention will improve your chances of survival. However, many patients will suffer permanent nerve damage even after surgery. Having a good support system will help you cope with the treatment.
Diagnosing a spinal tumor involves a thorough medical exam and radiological tests. X-rays of the spine show the structure of the vertebrae and outline the joints. However, x-rays are not highly accurate in diagnosing spinal tumors. The best way to determine if you have a tumor is to see your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will then order a series of tests to help make a diagnosis.
A growing tumor in the spine can cause symptoms. It may press on sensitive tissues or block blood and fluid flow. It may also interfere with brain activity and signaling. While some tumors will cause symptoms, others may not. If a tumor is benign and isn’t causing symptoms, it can be surgically removed. It’s important to see a doctor for a spinal cord tumor if it’s growing and has spread.
Children have not completed skeletal growth and may develop tumours in the spinal cord. However, the risk of developing cancer near the spinal cord is much greater for people who have not reached full skeletal growth. The treatment of spinal tumours will depend on whether the patient can keep their spine stable or whether they have neurological issues. For the past 30 years, NREF has funded research and training to improve treatment for conditions such as spinal tumors.
