Spinal tumours are abnormal growths that develop within or around the spinal cord or spine.
These tumours can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and may cause pain, neurological deficits, and other complications depending on their location and size.
Understanding Spine Tumours
Spinal tumours are classified into three main types:
- Intramedullary Tumours: Arise within the spinal cord (e.g., ependymomas, astrocytomas).
- Extramedullary Tumours: Develop outside the spinal cord but within its covering (e.g., meningiomas, schwannomas).
- Extradural Tumours: Form outside the spinal cord and dura mater, often involving the vertebrae.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary based on the tumour’s location, size, and growth rate. Common signs include:
- Persistent back or neck pain.
- Weakness or numbness in the limbs.
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
- Muscle spasms or paralysis in severe cases.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing a spinal tumour involves:
- Imaging Studies: MRI and CT scans to locate and characterize the tumour.
- Biopsy: To determine the tumour type and guide treatment.
- Neurological Exam: To assess the impact on spinal cord and nerve function.
Treatment Options
The treatment plan depends on the tumour’s type, location, and patient health. Common approaches include:
1. Surgery
Surgical removal is often the first-line treatment for accessible spinal tumours.
- Procedure: The surgeon removes as much of the tumour as safely possible, often using microsurgical techniques.
- Benefits: Immediate relief of symptoms and prevention of further damage.
- Risks: Possible nerve damage or incomplete removal of the tumour.
2. Radiation Therapy
Used to treat malignant or residual tumours after surgery.
- Procedure: High-energy radiation targets the tumour to destroy or shrink it.
- Benefits: Non-invasive and effective for many tumour types.
- Risks: Fatigue, skin irritation, or damage to surrounding tissues.
3. Chemotherapy
Primarily used for malignant tumours that are sensitive to anti-cancer drugs.
- Procedure: Drugs are administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells.
- Benefits: May control tumour growth and spread.
- Risks: Side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and weakened immunity.
4. Targeted Therapy
For specific tumour types, targeted drugs attack cancer cells without affecting normal cells.
5. Rehabilitation
Post-treatment, patients may require:
- Physical Therapy: To regain strength and mobility.
- Occupational Therapy: To improve daily functioning and independence.
- Pain Management: Through medications or other interventions.
Advancements in Treatment
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Reduces recovery time and surgical risks.
- Proton Therapy: A precise form of radiation that minimizes damage to healthy tissue.
- Molecular Targeting: Emerging therapies targeting tumour-specific genetic markers.