Spinal Tumors: What You Need to Know

 

A spinal tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue that forms within or near the spinal cord and vertebrae. These tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), affecting movement, sensation, and overall health. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial to managing spinal tumors effectively.

Types of Spinal Tumors

Spinal tumors are classified into three main categories based on their location:

  1. Intramedullary Tumors:

    • Develop inside the spinal cord.
    • Common types include astrocytomas and ependymomas.

  2. Intradural-Extramedullary Tumors:

    • Grow inside the spinal canal but outside the spinal cord.
    • Examples include meningiomas, schwannomas, and neurofibromas.

  3. Extradural Tumors:

    • Located outside the spinal cord and spinal membranes, often in the vertebrae.
    • Frequently metastatic (spread from cancers in other body parts).

Symptoms of Spinal Tumors

The symptoms of spinal tumors vary based on their size, location, and growth rate. Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent back pain, which may worsen at night.
  • Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs.
  • Weakness in the limbs, leading to difficulty in walking.
  • Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases.
  • Spinal deformities in some cases.

Since symptoms can be subtle, they are often mistaken for common back issues, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Detecting spinal tumors in their early stages can prevent severe complications. Doctors use MRI scans, CT scans, and biopsies to diagnose these tumors accurately. If you experience persistent back pain or unexplained neurological symptoms, consult a specialist immediately.

Treatment Options for Spinal Tumors

Several treatment approaches are available, depending on the tumor type, size, and location:

  1. Surgery – Removal of the tumor is often the first approach, especially for benign tumors.
  2. Radiation Therapy – Used for malignant or partially removed tumors.
  3. Chemotherapy – Recommended for cancerous spinal tumors.
  4. Targeted Therapy – Involves advanced drugs that specifically target tumor cells.
  5. Rehabilitation Therapy – Helps regain mobility and strength after treatment.

Why Specialist Care is Essential?

Given the complexity of spinal tumors, seeking treatment from a qualified neurosurgeon or spine specialist is crucial. Specialists offer advanced treatment options and ensure better recovery outcomes.

Consult a Specialist Today

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a spinal tumor, do not ignore them. Seek expert medical advice immediately.

Contact Details

For consultations and appointments:

Dr. Dilip Kiyawat
M.Ch. (Neuro) Neurosurgeon
📞 +91 98220 46043
📧 drdilipkiyawatneurosurgeon@gmail.com
🌐 www.drdilipkiyawatneurosurgeon.com

Clinic Locations:
🏥 Jehangir Hospital - 32, Sassoon Road, near Pune Railway Station, Pune 411001
🏥 Sainath Hospital - Sant Nagar, Pune - Nashik Hwy, Moshi Pradhikaran, Moshi, Pimpri-Chinchwad, Maharashtra 411017

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