Spinal Cord Tumour

Symptoms & Causes Diagnosis & Treatment Doctors

What is a Spinal Cord Tumour?

A spinal cord tumour is an abnormal growth of cells that develops in or around the spinal cord. The spinal cord, a vital part of the nervous system, carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. It is protected by the bones of the spine, also known as vertebrae.

Spinal cord tumours can be classified as:

Benign (non-cancerous): These tumours grow slowly and are less likely to spread.
Malignant (cancerous): These tumours grow aggressively and may spread to other parts of the body.

Depending on their location, spinal cord tumours are further divided into:

Intramedullary Tumours: Found within the spinal cord itself, such as gliomas, astrocytomas, and ependymomas.
Extramedullary Tumours: Found in the tissues surrounding the spinal cord, such as meningiomas, schwannomas, and neurofibromas.

Specialists such as neurosurgeons, neurologists, and spine surgeons often collaborate to diagnose and treat these tumours effectively.

Causes of Spinal Cord Tumours

The exact cause of most spinal cord tumours remains unclear. However, they begin when cells in or around the spinal cord undergo changes in their DNA. DNA contains instructions that regulate cell growth, division, and death.

In tumour cells, these instructions are altered, causing:

Uncontrolled Growth: Cells multiply rapidly, forming a mass of abnormal tissue.
Resistance to Cell Death: Tumour cells survive longer than normal cells, leading to accumulation.
Pressure on Nerves: The growing tumour may compress surrounding nerves, causing symptoms.

In some cases, genetic conditions may increase the risk of spinal cord tumours:

Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1): A genetic disorder causing tumours in nerve tissue and changes in skin pigmentation.
Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2): A condition associated with multiple tumours in the brain and spinal cord.
Von Hippel-Lindau Disease: A rare condition causing blood vessel tumours (hemangioblastomas) in the brain, retina, and spinal cord.

While these genetic factors are known risk contributors, most spinal cord tumours occur without a clear cause. Orthopaedic oncologists may also be involved in cases where the tumour affects the structural integrity of the spine.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Tumours

Spinal cord tumours may not cause symptoms in their early stages. However, as the tumour grows, it can compress nearby nerves, leading to noticeable signs.

Common Symptoms in Adults

Pain: Persistent pain near the tumour site, often worsening at night or over time.
Radiating Pain: Pain that spreads from the back to nearby areas, such as the arms or legs.
Sensory Changes: Reduced sensitivity to pain, heat, or cold in specific areas of the body.
Muscle Weakness: Weakness in the arms or legs, which may worsen gradually.
Mobility Issues: Difficulty walking, frequent falls, or loss of coordination.
Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction: Loss of control over bowel or bladder functions.

Symptoms in Children

Spinal cord tumours are rare in children, but when they occur, symptoms may include:

Spinal Deformity: Development of a new curve in the spine (scoliosis).
Back or Neck Pain: Pain that worsens at night or disrupts sleep.
Walking Difficulties: Changes in gait, frequent tripping, or falling.
Loss of Mobility: A child who previously walked may revert to crawling or stop attempting to stand.
Muscle Weakness: Reduced strength in one or more limbs.

Specialists such as pediatric neurologists and pediatric neurosurgeons are often involved in diagnosing and managing spinal cord tumours in children.

When to See a Doctor

If you or your child experiences any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to consult a doctor promptly. Early diagnosis can help manage the condition and prevent further complications.

At Subang Jaya Medical Centre (SJMC), our multidisciplinary team of neurosurgeons, neurologists, spine surgeons, and orthopaedic oncologists work together to provide comprehensive care for spinal cord tumours.

Risk Factors for Spinal Cord Tumours

While spinal cord tumours are rare, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing them:

Genetic Conditions: As mentioned earlier, conditions like NF1, NF2, and Von Hippel-Lindau disease are significant risk factors.
Family History: A family history of genetic disorders linked to tumours may also elevate risk.

Unfortunately, there are no known preventive measures for spinal cord tumours. However, staying informed about risk factors and seeking timely medical attention can make a difference.

Complications of Spinal Cord Tumours

If left untreated, spinal cord tumours can lead to complications due to nerve compression, such as:

Loss of Movement: Weakness or paralysis in areas below the tumour.
Sensory Impairment: Reduced sensation or numbness in affected areas.
Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction: Difficulty controlling these functions.

Treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. In some cases, lost function may be restored with timely intervention.

FAQs About Spinal Cord Tumour Symptoms and Causes

Not always. Some spinal cord tumours may not cause pain initially and can remain asymptomatic for a long time. However, as they grow, they may press on nerves, leading to pain or discomfort.

The growth rate of spinal cord tumours varies. Benign tumours typically grow slowly, while malignant tumours may grow more rapidly and aggressively.

Symptoms like pain often worsen at night due to reduced movement, changes in posture, and heightened nerve sensitivity during rest.

Yes, spinal cord tumours are sometimes associated with genetic conditions like Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1), Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2), and Von Hippel-Lindau disease.

Yes, depending on their location, spinal cord tumours can cause muscle weakness or pain, making it difficult to stand, sit, or maintain posture for extended periods.

The first signs often include localized back or neck pain, tingling in the arms or legs, or unexplained muscle weakness. These symptoms may appear mild at first but worsen over time.

Spinal cord tumours can occur at any age, but certain types, like astrocytomas, are more common in children, while meningiomas are more frequent in adults.

If left untreated, spinal cord tumours can lead to permanent nerve damage, resulting in disability such as paralysis or loss of bowel and bladder control.