brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Spinal Tumors
Diagnosis of Spinal Tumors
Magnetic resonance imaging or myelography with computed tomography Sometimes a biopsy Compression of the Spinal Cord by a tumor must be diagnosed and treated efficiently and quickly to prevent permanent damage. Doctors consider the possibility of a spinal tumor in people who have certain patterns of weakness or nerve dysfunction (such as loss of sensation) or pain in certain locations in the back or neck, particularly if they have certain cancers in other parts of the body. Because the spinal cord is organized in a specific way, doctors can locate the tumor by determining which parts of the body are not functioning normally. When doctors suspect a spinal tumor, they must rule out other disorders that can affect the function of the spinal cord, such as a Herniated Disk , Several procedures can help doctors diagnose a spinal tumor. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the best procedure for examining all the structures of the spinal cord and spine. When MRI is unavailable, Myelography with computed tomography (CT) may be done instead. X-rays of the spine are less useful because they show only changes in the bones. However, x-rays, which may be taken for other reasons, may detect destruction of the bone or distortion of the tissues around the spinal cord, especially if the tumor is metastatic. A biopsy is sometimes needed to diagnose the precise type of tumor, especially primary spinal tumors. However, a biopsy is not needed for spinal tumors that result from metastases if cancer has been diagnosed elsewhere in the body. Often, a biopsy requires surgery, but sometimes it can be done using a needle with CT or MRI to guide doctors as they place the needle in the tumor. 