Facts | Symptoms | Causes | Diagnosis | Treatment
options
Facts
Spinal
cord tumors are abnormal growths of tissue found inside the bony spinal column,
which is a primary component of the central nervous system (CNS). Benign tumors
are noncancerous, while malignant tumors are cancerous. Because the central
nervous system is found in rigid, bony quarters (i.e., the spinal column),
any abnormal growth, whether benign or malignant, can place pressure on sensitive
tissues and impair function. 
Symptoms
Symptoms
of spinal cord tumors generally develop slowly and worsen over time unless
they are treated. Spinal cord tumor symptoms include pain, sensory changes
and motor problems.
Causes
Tumors
that originate in the brain or spinal cord are called primary tumors. Most
primary tumors are caused by out-of-control growth among cells that surround
and support neurons. In a small number of individuals, primary tumors may
result from specific genetic disease (e.g., neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis)
or from exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals. The cause of most
primary tumors remains a mystery. They are not contagious and, at this time,
not preventable.
Diagnosis
The first test to diagnose brain and spinal column tumors is a neurological
examination. Special imaging techniques, such as computed tomography, magnetic
resonance imaging and positron emission tomography are also used. Laboratory
tests may include the EEG and the spinal tap. A biopsy is a surgical procedure
in which a sample of tissue is taken from a suspected tumor and may help doctors
diagnose the type of tumor.
The
tumor may be classified as benign or malignant and given a numbered score
accordingly. This score can help doctors determine how to treat the tumor
and predict the likely outcome for the patient.
[top]
Treatment
The
three most commonly used treatments are surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Doctors also may prescribe steroids to reduce swelling inside the CNS.
IMRT
radiosurgery
The
spinal cord can only tolerate certain amounts of radiation. Intensity-modulated
radiation therapy (IMRT) can treat paraspinal tumors of any shape or size
while at the same time sparing the greatest amount of normal tissue. This
highly advanced technique involves using digital images of the tumor to coordinate
a three-dimensional approach in which beams of radiation are delivered to
the tumor. The radiation is controlled and therefore can better target the
region where the tumor resides with a more concentrated dosage.
IMRT
radiosurgery represents a significant advance within the field of spinal tumor
treatment and is expected to eventually become the standard treatment for
primary and metastatic tumors.
[top]
Quick navigation links:
About us | Our Physicians | Expertise | Resources | Contact Us | Driving directions: Savannah, Hilton Head, Dublin
Disclaimer:
The pictures displayed in www.NeurologicalInstitute.com are images of actual patients and employees who have consented to have their picture in this website.
Need more information
on health and wellness?
Click here for information on diet, nutrition and health resource books. Learn when to see the doctor and what causes symptoms.
Educational illustrations and content Copyright © 2010 Prizm Development, Inc.
Web design & Copyright 2010 © Prizm Development, Inc.
www.prizmdevelopment.com |
|
|
