What causes cancer near the spine? There are several factors that can contribute to the development of spinal pathology, including traumatic sequelae, deformity, and chronic degenerative disease. Treatment options for spinal cancer depend on the type and extent of the tumor, as the various tissues surrounding the spinal column are different. These tissues can include bone, cartilage, and meningeal tissue. In addition to the spinal cord, cancer near the spine can also spread to distant areas, so proper treatment is essential.
If the spine is affected by cancer, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. The type of surgery chosen depends on the extent of the tumor, the location, and the patient’s overall health. While some tumors respond to radiation therapy, other types are resistant. Patients should discuss the risks and benefits of each treatment option with their health care provider to determine what is best for them. However, the patient should know that surgical treatment does not guarantee a cure for cancer near the spine.
Giant cell tumors, a type of brain tumor, form a mass that resembles a star under the microscope. Giant cell tumors develop from the fusion of many different types of cells and can affect vertebrae. Meningioma, meanwhile, forms from the blood vessels that connect the central nervous system. Despite their name, meningioma is a tumor of the meninges, which can be deadly if it grows to a large size.
Extradural tumors arise outside of the spinal cord. These tumors are commonly metastatic and have a 55% incidence. They are classified as either cancerous or non-cancerous. Extradural tumors originate from the nerve roots or the surrounding tissues. They may extend through the intervertebral foramina, lie outside the spinal canal, or be primary bone tumors. If the tumor is metastatic, it will spread throughout the body.
Symptoms of cancer near the spine vary greatly from patient to patient. Most patients will experience back pain, but other symptoms may include numbness or tingling of the arms or legs. People with spinal tumors may also have difficulty walking, clumsiness, or fumble buttons. If these symptoms do not subside, the cancer may have spread further. They may even experience paralysis. While most spinal tumors are benign, they may eventually progress into metastatic forms.
Primary cancers that spread to the spine include breast, lung, and melanoma. Other types of cancers can affect the spine, such as gastrointestinal tract, kidney, and thyroid. While cancer near the spine is uncommon, it is important to seek treatment for any type of tumor near the spine. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have cancer, it is vital to seek medical attention as early as possible. There are many options available to cure spinal cancer.
A spinal tumor should be diagnosed with a complete medical evaluation by a physician. Medical tests include a physical examination, neurological evaluation, and a radiographic study. A spinal MR scan is the most effective radiographic study for tumors near the spine. MRI scans show bone and spinal cord detail in greater detail than x-rays. If a tumor is detected early enough, treatment can begin quickly. If not, it is important to have an MRI done to rule out other possibilities.
