Tumours emerge on distinct parts of the body due to the abnormal growth of tissue. There are two types of tumors, benign and malignant tumors. When the tumor is malignant, it means that it is cancerous, it can spread to other parts of the body as well and when it is benign, it is non cancerous and this type tends to grow slowly. The spinal cord is one of the body part that is susceptible to tumours, amongst others like the brain and skin. However, spinal tumours are considered to be rare.
What Is A Spinal Tumor?
A spinal tumour is an abnormal mass of cells that surrounds or is found within the spinal column. Spinal tumours can be malignant or benign; if they continue to increase in size, they may damage the spinal column. Tumours that develop on your spinal cord are known as primary tumours, and those that spread to the spinal cord due to cancerous cells are called metastatic or secondary tumours. Metastatic tumours are more prevalent than primary tumours.
The spinal column is complex; it consists of distinct types of cells and tissue. Let’s look at some of the specific types of spinal tumours:
1. Astrocytoma
this tumour originates from astrocytes, a type of cells that provide nutrients and support to the neurons. This tumour can either be malignant or benign. Some of the symptoms of astrocytoma include seizures, vision changes and memory loss. According to the best neurosurgeon in India, the most effective treatment for this kind of tumour is surgery, radiation therapy and other targeted therapies.
2. Ependymoma
this tumour is caused by ependymal cells, and it develops in the pathways of the cerebrospinal fluid. This kind of spinal tumour is most common in adults and can rarely spread outside of the spinal area. It can be malignant or benign. Symptoms may include loss of bladder control, weakness and numbness. Treatment of this tumour also includes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.
3. Meningioma
known as the tumour of the tissue, it develops from the membrane that surrounds the spinal cord. Meningiomas are often benign; however, if they keep growing, they may be life-threatening. Symptoms of meningioma may include speech or memory problems. Treatments include radiation therapy and sometimes observation, as it grows slowly.
4. Hemangioblastoma
this is a non-cancerous tumour that affects the nervous system, including the spinal cord. It originates from blood vessels meaning its a vascular tumor. Symptoms of this type may vary from coordination difficulties and neurological shortcomings. Treatment for hemangioblastoma, according to the best neurosurgeon in India, is surgery. Surgery will reduce the blood flow to the tumour.
Spinal tumours develop in different locations and are categorised into three types: Intradural-extramedullary tumours, intramedullary tumour and extradural tumour, depending on where they form in the spinal column.
Lastly, having learned a few things from the aforementioned information, it is imperative that we watch out for any symptoms of spinal tumours for early diagnosis and treatment. Sometimes, discovering that you have a spinal tumour can be shocking, but you can rest assured that Kalyan Hospital-Endoscopic Spine and Ortho Centre in Ludhiana will develop a customised and thorough treatment for you that will save and improve your quality of life.
