Symptoms of cancer near the spine may include headaches, paralysis, and difficulty breathing. Treatment options vary depending on the type of tumor and location. If you suspect that you have cancer near the spine, consult your doctor. The following are just a few examples of possible symptoms. Cancer near the spine may be painful and cause disability, but it is not a life-threatening condition.
Treatment of cancer near the spinal cord may vary depending on the type of tumor, age, and treatment goals. Primary tumors, which originate inside the spinal cord, are usually removed completely. Unfortunately, complete resection of these tumors can be difficult, as they may result in significant damage to nearby nerves. Patients with metastatic tumors may be given radiation therapy instead. However, radiation therapy does not always work for spinal tumors. Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may recommend another type of treatment.
Pain from spinal tumors is the most common symptom of cancer near the spine. Pain can be sharp, numbness, or tingling. This pain may come and go, but it is usually constant and progressive. In addition to pain, patients may experience sensory changes, such as decreased sensitivity to temperature or numbness in their legs. Motor issues, such as muscle weakness, spasticity, and impaired bladder control may also develop.
Pain from a spinal tumor may be referred to as “spinal tumor” or “spinal neuropathic pain”. Although the spinal cord is protected by three membranes, it is often covered by bone, which can cause intense back pain. It can also spread to nearby bones, blood vessels, and nerve roots. Because of this, symptoms from spinal tumors may range from mild to severe. Fortunately, most of the time, treatment options for cancer near the spine are non-surgical.
Cancer near the spine can be classified into two types: intradural and extradural. The former is a tumor that develops outside the spinal cord and is located in the medulla or dura mater. The latter is more severe than intradural tumors, as the cancer cells spread aggressively throughout the body. Cancer near the spine can be in any part of the spine. Tumors can develop in the bone surrounding the spinal cord, or in the spinal canal itself.
The two other types of cancer that can form near the spine are osteosarcoma and osteochondroma. Both types of cancer grow from tissue inside the spinal column, and the symptoms of each are not usually consistent. Therefore, a thorough diagnosis is necessary for proper treatment. Sometimes, however, a benign tumor is all that is required. In either case, you should visit your doctor immediately if you suspect you have a tumor near the spine.
A CT scan, or computed tomography scan, can provide additional diagnostic information. CT scans help clinicians see the details of bony anatomy and can reveal intradural neoplasms. Bone scans are also commonly ordered when cancer is suspected. Bone scans can also show other lesions in the bones throughout the body. They can help your doctor decide on the best treatment for your specific case. If cancer near the spine is suspected, the doctor may recommend surgery.
