If you have discovered that you have cancer near your spinal cord, you need to see a physician right away. While some cancers in the spine are benign and can be treated by a surgeon, others can be aggressive and require extensive treatment. Fortunately, many spinal cord tumors can be successfully treated with surgery and are contained for years. But the treatments that your doctor will prescribe are not without risks. Listed below are the important facts you should know about spinal cord tumours and their treatment.
Meningioma is the most common type of cancer near the spinal cord. It starts in the thin membranes surrounding the spinal cord. It typically begins in the upper part of the back, and it is more common in women than in men. Glioblastoma, on the other hand, develops in the meninges or blood vessels surrounding the spinal cord. Both meningiomas and schwannoma are potentially life-threatening, and require urgent medical attention.
The two main types of tumors near the spine are intramedullary and extradural. Intramedullary tumors grow inside the spinal cord. Extradural tumors are located outside the spinal cord. They are usually malignant. Cancer near the spine often results from metastasis from other parts of the body. If you suspect that you may have a tumor near your spine, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Bone tumors near the spine can be benign. Hemangiomas, a type of bone tumor, are most common in children and young adults, but can also affect internal organs. They are more common in women than men and are typically less than 1.5 centimeters in size. Most patients with these tumors are in their twenties and early 30s. However, some benign tumors can become malignant and cause problems when they get large enough.
Some individuals are at increased risk for spinal tumors. People who have a history of other cancers should be particularly vigilant in their screening. In fact, 40 to 80% of all cancer patients will develop bone metastases. In the United States alone, about 359,000 people will develop a spinal tumor. If you have a family history of cancer, screening for spinal tumors is even more important. You may be unaware of it, but the best defense against spinal tumors is early detection.
If you have a first-degree family member with a spinal tumor, it is important to seek genetic counseling and genetic testing. Early diagnosis and treatment are the keys to a healthy life. However, many spinal tumors are preventable. Adjuvant therapy can help prevent secondary tumors from developing by shrinking the primary tumor and preventing its cells from breaking off. Although these treatments are not a cure, they can dramatically increase your chances of survival.
Pain is one of the primary symptoms of spinal tumors. It can affect nerves, disrupt communication, and restrict the cord’s blood supply. Because the spinal column is narrow, tumors can affect both sides of the body. Symptoms may include numbness, weakness, and problems controlling bladder and bowel movements. A tumor in the spinal cord can also cause problems with balance and bladder control. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should contact a doctor as soon as possible.
