What is a Spinal Cord Tumour ?
The spine is not a single location. It is made of different types of tissues that span the entire length of your back and into your neck and pelvis. A tumor can form in almost every type of tissue.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis to look for tumor cells
- Radiological imaging studies to identify the location and appearance of the tumor.
- CT scan, which is sometimes used to better visualize the bone structures
- Biopsy from the actual tumor to provide a precise classification.
signs and symptoms include:
- Loss of sensation or muscle weakness in the legs, arms or chest
- Stiff neck or back
- Pain and/or neurologic symptoms (such as tingling) increase with Valsalva maneuver
- Difficulty walking, which may cause falls
- Decreased sensitivity to pain, heat and cold
- Loss of bowel or bladder function
Regions of your spine
- Cervical : Neck area.
- Thoracic: Upper- to mid-back.
- Lumbar: Lower back.
- Sacrum: Bottom of your spine.