Nobody wants to suffer from persistent back pain. Consulting a physician to have the problem diagnosed can often bring relief, if treatment is available. However, the diagnosis of a spinal tumor can be very upsetting, triggering feelings of fear and anxiety. Many people immediately think of cancer, but not all tumors are cancerous. Some tumors are benign and are not life threatening. Here are four things to know about spinal tumors.
Spinal tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Primary tumors, or tumors that originate around the spinal cord, are not common and may be either benign or malignant. Most are benign and will not spread to other areas of the body. However, even a benign tumor can cause serious symptoms since it can press on the spinal cord or surrounding nerves. The severity of the symptoms depends on the size and location of the tumor.
Secondary spinal tumors are more common. These are cancerous tumors that have spread, or metastasized to the spine. Examples of types of cancers that may spread to the spine include lung cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma, sarcoma, multiple myeloma, lymphoma, and leukemia. These cancers often spread to the vertebrae.
Spinal tumors may produce significant symptoms.
Although spinal tumors may have no initial symptoms, they can eventually grow large enough to cause significant symptoms. Depending on the tumor’s location and size, the most common symptoms are neck or back pain. The pain may become persistent with physical activity or when lying down. Sleep may be negatively impacted. There may be numbness, tingling, muscle weakness, or pain that radiates down the arms or legs. The tumor may cause balance or coordination issues that may result in falls. There may be problems with bladder or bowel incontinence. Symptoms may worsen over time.
Spinal tumors are diagnosed with imaging tests.
Following a thorough physical exam and medical history, the physician will order imaging tests. This may include x-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. If the tests indicate a tumor, a biopsy to collect a tissue sample may be performed. The sample will be analyzed in a lab to determine what type of tumor is present.
Treatment options depend on the type of tumor.
Some benign tumors may be monitored regularly to assess changes or growth. Tumors may be surgically removed, depending on size and location. If the tumor cannot be safely or completely removed, the patient may have to undergo radiation therapy.
Doctors may use a combination of therapies to treat metastatic, or cancerous tumors. This may include chemotherapy, radiation, or stereotactic radiosurgery. Surgery to remove the tumor may be considered an option if the patient is expected to live several months or more.
Atlanta Brain and Spine Care
The neurosurgeons at Atlanta Brain and Spine Care offer patients access to some of the world’s most advanced surgical treatments and procedures. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
