17500 Spinal Tumors

Overview

A spinal tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in or around the spinal cord or the bones of the spine. It can be benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer). Some spinal tumors start in the spine itself, while others spread from cancer in another part of the body.

Spinal tumors are rare compared to common back problems like muscle strain or disc disease. Secondary spinal tumors (those that spread from elsewhere) are more common than primary tumors.

Spinal tumors can affect people of all ages. Some types are more common in children and young adults, while others are more common in people over 50. People with a history of cancer or certain inherited conditions have a higher risk.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Back pain – often in the middle or lower back, and it may be worse at night or when lying down
• Pain that spreads to the arms, legs, or chest
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
• Trouble walking or loss of balance
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (urinary or faecal incontinence)
• Muscle weakness or wasting

Symptoms in children

• Persistent back pain that is not explained by sports or injury
• Changes in posture or a curve in the spine
• Trouble with walking or an unusual gait
• Delay in toilet training or loss of bladder/bowel control
• A painless lump on the back or neck

Symptoms in older adults

• Back pain that fails to improve with rest or simple pain relief
• Progressive leg weakness or difficulty climbing stairs
• New onset of urinary incontinence or constipation (with weakness)
• Balance problems or falls
• Unexplained weight loss or fever, especially if you have a history of cancer

Causes

Main causes

• The cause of most primary spinal tumors is unknown.
• Many spinal tumors are secondary: cancer cells from another part of the body spread through the bloodstream to the spine.
• Some inherited diseases, such as neurofibromatosis, increase the risk of developing spinal tumors.

Risk factors

• History of cancer elsewhere in the body (especially breast, lung, prostate, kidney, or thyroid)
• A weakened immune system for certain types of tumors
• Certain genetic conditions, such as neurofibromatosis or von Hippel-Lindau disease
• Previous radiation treatment to the head or neck (rare)
• Age – spinal tumors can occur at any age, but some types are more common in adults between 20 and 50

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Back pain that lasts more than a few weeks or gets progressively worse
• Back pain with weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs
• Back pain with loss of bladder or bowel control
• Back pain with a fever or unintentional weight loss

Book a routine appointment if:

• New persistent back pain that wakes you at night or is not relieved by usual pain relief
• Ongoing fatigue or a change in your walking pattern
• A history of cancer and new back pain, even if mild

Diagnosis

A doctor will start with a full medical history and a physical exam. They will check your strength, reflexes, sensation, and balance. They will also ask about any past cancer or family history of tumors. If they suspect a spinal tumor, they will refer you for imaging scans.

Tests that may be done

• MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) – the best scan for seeing the spinal cord, nerves, and details of the spine
• CT scan – to look at the bones of the spine
• Biopsy – taking a small sample of the tumor to see if it is benign or malignant
• X-rays – to check the alignment of the spine (less detailed than MRI/CT)
• Blood tests – to look for markers related to cancer or infection

What to expect at your appointment

If a spinal tumor is suspected, you will be referred to a specialist (a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or oncologist). You will likely need more than one test. The process may take a few weeks, and your team will explain each step. Try to write down questions before each visit and bring someone you trust for support.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the tumor type, size, location, whether it is cancer, and your overall health. The goals are to relieve symptoms, protect your spinal cord, and control any cancer. Most plans involve a team of specialists and are highly individualized.

Self-care at home

• Follow your treatment plan and keep all appointments.
• Stay as active as your doctor allows – gentle walking or stretching may help.
• Get support for daily tasks if you feel weak or in pain.
• Ask about physical therapy or occupational therapy.
• Keep a healthy diet and drink enough fluids.

Medical treatments

Doctors use several approaches. Surgery can remove the tumor, or at least reduce its size. Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy and other medicines, sometimes taken by mouth or through a drip, can shrink or control a tumor. Medicines can also help control pain and reduce swelling. Your care team will adjust the plan based on how you respond.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is often recommended when the tumor presses on the spinal cord or nerves and is causing weakness, numbness, or bowel/bladder problems, or when the tumor is located in a place that can be safely removed. The amount of tumor removed depends on its location and type.

Living with this condition

Living with a spinal tumor often involves adapting your daily routine. You may need help with mobility or household tasks. Set realistic goals, rest when you need to, and accept help from others. A physical or occupational therapist can help you stay independent.

Lifestyle tips

• Join a support group to talk with others who understand what you are going through.
• Keep doing hobbies you enjoy that are safe and within your limits.
• Avoid heavy lifting or sudden twisting of your spine – ask your doctor what is safe.
• Stop smoking, and limit alcohol, as they can affect recovery and overall health.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein can help your body cope with treatment. Exercise is generally encouraged but must be guided by your doctor. Gentle stretching, walking, or stationary cycling may be safe, while high-impact activities should be avoided. Always check with your care team first.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is completely normal to feel anxious, frightened, or down after a spinal tumor diagnosis. Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Talk openly with your care team, and ask about counselling or mental health support. If you ever feel overwhelmed or have thoughts of self-harm, reach out to a crisis line or emergency service immediately.

Prevention

Most spinal tumors cannot be prevented. However, you can reduce your risk of cancers that are more likely to spread to the spine by not smoking, protecting your skin from the sun, and having recommended cancer screening tests. If you have a genetic condition that raises your risk, your doctor may suggest regular check-ups.

Vaccines

There are no vaccines that specifically prevent spinal tumors. However, vaccines against certain viruses, such as HPV and hepatitis B, can reduce the risk of cancers that might later spread to the spine. Ask your doctor if these vaccines are right for you.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening test for spinal tumors in the general population. If you have a condition that increases your risk, your doctor may arrange regular scans. Otherwise, the best screening is being aware of symptoms and seeing a doctor early, especially if you have back pain with neurological symptoms.

Complications

If left untreated

• Permanent weakness or paralysis in the arms or legs
• Loss of bowel and bladder control (incontinence)
• Compression of the spinal cord, which can cause a medical emergency
• In malignant tumors, spread of the cancer to other parts of the body
• Chronic pain and reduced mobility

Long-term outlook

With the right care, many people with spinal tumors live active, meaningful lives. Treatment can often control symptoms and preserve function. Benign tumors may be cured by surgery alone. For malignant tumors, newer treatments have improved outlooks. Your doctor will discuss what is realistic for your situation. Keep focusing on the things you can control, and remember that every treatment step is a step forward.

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