An abnormal development inside or close to the spinal cord or its surrounding structures is called a spinal cord tumour. It can cause discomfort, weakness, or paralysis by compressing nerves, depending on its location and type. In order to relieve pressure and stop more harm, surgical excision is frequently necessary.
Spinal Cord Tumour Types
1. Tumours that are intramedullary (in the spinal cord)
- Hemangioblastoma, astrocytoma, and ependymoma.
2. Extramedullary tumours, which are found inside the spinal canal but outside of the spinal cord
- Neurofibroma, schwannoma, and meningioma.
3. Metastatic tumours are cancers that have spread to other parts of the body, such as the breast, prostate, or lung.
Signs of a tumour in the spinal cord
Location, size, and growth rate all affect symptoms:
- Persistent pain that gets worse at night.
- Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs.
- Loss of bladder/bowel control (a medical emergency known as cauda equina syndrome).
- Walking difficulties and balance problems.
- Paralysis or muscle spasms (if severe).
