If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer near the spinal cord, you might be wondering what treatment to expect. The options can differ from patient to patient, depending on the age and location of the tumour. Surgery for a primary tumor can remove the entire tumor, but it’s not always possible, since tumors that originate in the spinal cord often cause significant neural damage. In these cases, the treatment is palliative and may not be curative.
The most common types of cancers that spread to the spine are lung and breast cancer, both of which are common in females. White blood cell cancers, including multiple myeloma, can also spread to the spine. Cancer patients are at a greater risk of developing spinal tumors, which are called secondary spinal tumors. Cancers that spread to the spine are called metastatic, and they’re typically diagnosed late. Cancer cells infiltrate the vertebrae, weakening their structural integrity. This can result in pathological fractures and deformity on multiple contiguous vertebrae levels.
Although the majority of spinal tumors are secondary, there are other types of spinal tumors, such as those caused by primary cancer that has metastasized. A primary spinal tumor is relatively uncommon and accounts for only 0.5% of newly diagnosed tumors. Cancer cells that originate in the abdominal cavity can spread to the spine through fluids. Cancer cells in the spinal cord can spread to other parts of the body by entering nearby areas of the lymphatic system and bloodstream.
Surgery can cure a primary tumor. Surgery for metastatic tumors is used only when the tumor is in the spine. In addition to removal of the tumor, the surgeon will usually implant a bone cement in the spine. The implanted bone cement will help the patient regain mobility and reduce pain. While surgery is not curative for spinal tumors, it is an effective treatment for approximately 10% of cases of cancer near the spine. Even if it’s metastatic to other organs, it’s important to seek treatment for any cancers that have metastasized to the spine.
The main symptom of spinal metastasis is pain. Pain can be localized or widespread and can wake a patient. Pain is the most common presenting symptom of cancer near the spine, but it’s not the most frightening. The pain is deep, aching, and often wakes the patient up at night. If the pain persists, it’s worth seeking further diagnosis. And if you have any of the other symptoms mentioned, don’t dismiss it.
When you have cancer near the spinal cord, you might experience radicular pain. Radicular pain radiates from the spine to the legs and feet, and feels sharp and piercing. Pain from a spinal tumor may also affect your legs and feet, and cause clumsiness, inability to walk, and urinary incontinence. You may also lose sensation or control of your bladder or bowel. You might experience difficulty walking, fumbling buttons, or even paralysis.
