What is a spinal tumour?

A tumour is an abnormal mass of tissue that is created by the uncontrolled growth and multiplication of cells. They are two types of tumours – cancerous or malignant and non-cancerous or benign. A spinal tumour is a type of tumour that is found in the spinal cord or spine. While some spinal tumours originate within or around the spine, others can spread into the spine from another site. The cause of spinal tumours is largely unknown. So far, it has been deduced that cancer-causing agents and genetics are responsible.

Types of spinal tumours

Spinal tumours are categorized into two types.

1. Based on the region of the spine that is affected. The basic areas include cervical, thoracic, lumbar and sacrum.

2. Based on the tumour’s location within the spine. This is further categorized as:

• Intramedullary – These are tumours found within the spinal cord
• Extradural – These are located outside the thin sheath covering the spinal cord known as the dura
• Intradural-extramedullary – These tumours are found between the dura and the spinal cord

The spinal column which is comprised of bones is often a target of bone metastasis, which is a common ramification of cancerous spinal tumours.

Symptoms and treatment

The most common symptoms associated with spinal tumours are:

• Muscle weakness or loss of sensation
• Pain, numbness or tingling sensation
• Spinal deformity such as scoliosis
• Loss of bladder or bowel function
• Stiff back or neck
• Paralysis

The treatment of spinal tumours involves multidisciplinary intervention, involving spine specialists, surgeons and medical oncologists. Depending on the severity of the condition, spinal tumours can be treated through surgical or non-surgical means. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are part of non-surgical options.