Intramedullary Spinal Cord Tumours
Intramedullary spinal cord tumours are rare growths that develop inside the spinal cord itself. These tumours originate from the cells within the spinal cord, such as nerve cells or supportive glial cells. They can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and are most commonly found in the cervical (neck) or thoracic (mid-back) regions of the spine. Types of these tumours include astrocytomas, ependymomas, and hemangioblastomas.
Symptoms of intramedullary spinal cord tumours depend on their size and location. Common symptoms include:
- Back or neck pain: Persistent and worsening over time
- Weakness: Difficulty walking, holding objects, or moving arms and legs
- Numbness or tingling: Often felt in the hands, feet, or other parts of the body
- Loss of coordination: Trouble maintaining balance or performing precise movements
- Bladder or bowel problems: Difficulty controlling urination or bowel movements
- Paralysis: In severe cases, partial or complete loss of movement
What are the symptoms?
What are the causes and risk factors?
The exact cause of intramedullary spinal cord tumours is not well understood. However, potential risk factors include:
Genetic disorders
Conditions like neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and type 2 (NF2) increase the risk of developing spinal cord tumours.
Age
These tumours can occur at any age but are more common in young adults and middle-aged individuals.
Radiation exposure
Previous radiation therapy may slightly increase the risk.
Family history
Rarely, a family history of spinal cord tumours or genetic conditions can be a factor.
What are the complications from the condition?
- Permanent nerve damage: Resulting in chronic weakness, numbness, or loss of sensation
- Paralysis: Partial or complete loss of movement, depending on the tumour’s location
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Loss of control over these functions
- Chronic pain: Ongoing pain due to nerve damage or pressure
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical exams, and imaging tests. Common methods include:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The best tool for identifying the tumour’s size, location, and impact on the spinal cord.
- CT Scan: Provides additional detail about the tumour and its effect on surrounding structures.
- Biopsy: A small sample of the tumour may be taken to confirm the diagnosis and determine its type.
- Neurological examination: Tests reflexes, strength, and sensation to assess the tumour’s effect on the nervous system.
How is it treated?
Treatment depends on the tumour’s size, location, and whether it is benign or malignant. Options include:
- Surgery
- The primary treatment for removing the tumour. Advances in microsurgery allow surgeons to safely remove most tumours.
- Radiation therapy
- Used if the tumour cannot be fully removed or if it is malignant
- Chemotherapy
- Rarely used but may be considered for malignant tumours or in cases of recurrence.
- Rehabilitation
- Physical and occupational therapy to help regain strength, mobility, and independence after treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are intramedullary spinal cord tumours cancerous?
They can be benign or malignant, but both types can cause serious symptoms due to their location.
Can these tumours be cured?
Surgery can often completely remove benign tumours, while malignant tumours may require additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy.
Who is most at risk for these tumours?
People with genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis or those with a family history of tumours are at higher risk.
What happens if the tumour is not treated?
Untreated tumours can lead to permanent nerve damage, paralysis, or loss of bladder and bowel control.
Can the tumour come back after treatment?
Recurrence is possible, especially with malignant tumours, so regular follow-up is important.
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