Spinal tumor Health Article

Signs and tests

A nervous system (neurologic) examination may find the location of the tumor.

The health care provider may also find the following during an exam:

• Abnormal reflexes
• Increased muscle tone
• Loss of pain and temperature sensation
• Tenderness in the spine

These tests may confirm spinal tumor:

• Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) test
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination
• Cytology (cell studies) of CSF
• Myelogram
• Spinal CT
• Spine MRI or lumbosacral spine MRI
• Spine x-ray

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to reduce or prevent nerve damage from pressure on (compression of) the spinal cord.

Treatment should given quickly. The faster symptoms develop, the sooner treatment is needed to prevent permanent injury. Any new or unexplained back pain in a patient with cancer should be taken seriously.

Treatments include:

• Corticosteroids (dexamethasone) may be given to reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Surgery may be needed to relieve compression on the spinal cord. Some tumors can be completely removed. In other cases, part of the tumor may be removed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord.
• Radiation therapy may be used with, or instead of, surgery.
• Chemotherapy has not been proven effective against most spinal tumors, but it may be recommended in some cases.
• Physical therapy may be needed to improve muscle strength and the ability to function independently.

Support Groups

You can ease the stress of illness by joining a support group whose members share common experiences and problems.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome varies depending on the tumor. Early diagnosis and treatment usually leads to a better outcome.

Nerve damage often continues, even after surgery. Although permanent disability is likely, treatment may delay major disability and death.

Complications

• Incontinence
• Life-threatening spinal cord compression
• Loss of sensation
• Paralysis
• Permanent damage to nerves, disability from nerve damage

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you have a history of cancer and develop severe back pain that is sudden or gets worse.

Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if you develop new symptoms, or your symptoms get worse during the treatment of a spinal tumor.