Spinal Cord Tumours
Specialist neurosurgical evaluation and treatment planning for spinal cord tumour conditions.
A careful evaluation is the first step.
spinal cord tumours are abnormal growths of cells within or around the brain. They can vary in type, location, size and behaviour, and symptoms can differ depending on which part of the brain is affected.
Evaluation usually involves understanding the patient's symptoms and medical history, followed by appropriate neurological examination and imaging. Treatment planning depends on the individual diagnosis, tumour characteristics and the patient's overall clinical situation.
Symptoms can vary with the location and extent of the tumour.
Symptoms may develop gradually as a spinal cord tumour affects the spinal cord or nearby nerve structures.
Back or Neck Pain
Pain may occur in the back or neck and can sometimes become persistent or progressive.
Weakness
Weakness in the arms or legs may develop depending on the level of the spinal cord involved.
Numbness or Tingling
Changes in sensation, including numbness or tingling, can occur along the affected nerve pathways.
Balance or Walking Changes
Some people may notice difficulty with balance, coordination, or walking.
Changes in Hand Function
Difficulty with fine movements or grip may occur when the cervical spinal cord is affected.
Bowel or Bladder Changes
In some cases, spinal cord compression may be associated with changes in bowel or bladder function.
Not every spinal cord tumour is the same.
spinal cord tumours can be classified in different ways. Their behaviour and treatment options depend on the specific diagnosis and individual characteristics.
Primary Spinal Cord Tumours
Tumours that originate from cells and structures within the brain or surrounding tissues.
Secondary Spinal Cord Tumours
Tumours that have spread to the brain from cancer originating elsewhere in the body.
Benign Tumours
Some tumours are non-cancerous but may still require treatment depending on their size, location and effect on surrounding structures.
Malignant Tumours
Cancerous tumours may require coordinated treatment based on their type, grade, location and extent.
Understanding the condition before planning treatment.
A detailed evaluation helps determine the nature, location and extent of a spinal cord tumour and supports appropriate treatment planning.
Clinical Evaluation
Medical history, symptoms and neurological examination help guide further evaluation.
Brain Imaging
Imaging such as MRI or CT may be used to understand the location and characteristics of a lesion.
Further Assessment
Additional investigations may be considered depending on the suspected diagnosis and clinical findings.
Treatment Planning
Findings are reviewed to determine an appropriate management approach for the individual patient.
Treatment depends on the individual diagnosis.
Management of a spinal cord tumour is not the same for every patient. The approach depends on factors such as tumour type, location, size, symptoms and overall clinical assessment.
Observation & Follow-up
Selected tumours may be monitored with clinical and imaging follow-up when immediate treatment is not required.
Neurosurgical Treatment
Surgery may be considered when removal or tissue diagnosis is appropriate based on the tumour's characteristics and location.
Additional Cancer Treatment
Depending on the tumour type and diagnosis, treatment may involve additional specialist therapies as part of coordinated care.
Follow-up Care
Ongoing clinical review and appropriate imaging may form part of long-term management.
New or persistent neurological symptoms deserve evaluation.
If you experience new seizures, significant changes in vision or speech, persistent neurological symptoms, weakness, difficulty with balance, or other concerning changes, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Book a Consultation →Questions about spinal cord tumours.
What is a spinal cord tumour? +
A spinal cord tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain. Tumours can differ in type, location, behaviour and treatment requirements.
What symptoms can a spinal cord tumour cause? +
Symptoms can vary depending on the tumour's location and size. They may include headaches, seizures, weakness, sensory changes, vision problems, speech difficulties or balance problems.
Does every spinal cord tumour require surgery? +
No. Treatment depends on the individual diagnosis. Some tumours may be monitored, while others may require surgery or additional treatment.
How is a spinal cord tumour diagnosed? +
Evaluation may involve clinical assessment, neurological examination and spine and spinal cord imaging such as MRI or CT. Additional investigations may be required depending on the suspected condition.
When should I consult a neurosurgeon? +
A specialist consultation may be appropriate when imaging identifies a brain lesion or when neurological symptoms require further specialist evaluation.
Looking for specialist evaluation?
Discuss your symptoms, reports and treatment options with a neurosurgical specialist.