Intramedullary Spinal Tumors

Overview

Intramedullary spinal tumors are abnormal growths that occur within the spinal cord itself, in contrast to tumors that develop outside the spinal cord but inside the protective covering (dura mater). These tumors are rare but can cause serious complications by compressing the spinal cord and affecting its function. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing permanent damage to the spinal cord and nerves.

Symptoms

The symptoms of intramedullary spinal tumors often develop gradually and may be mistaken for other spine-related conditions. Common symptoms include:

• Back or neck pain: Persistent pain, often worsening over time, sometimes radiating to the arms or legs.
• Weakness or numbness: Loss of strength or sensation in the arms or legs, often on both sides of the body.
• Loss of coordination: Difficulty with walking or fine motor skills.
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Problems with controlling bladder or bowel movements, which may indicate nerve compression.
• Paralysis: In advanced cases, paralysis may occur below the level of the tumor.

Symptoms tend to worsen as the tumor grows, putting increasing pressure on the spinal cord.

Causes of Intramedullary Spinal Tumors

The exact causes of intramedullary spinal tumors are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

• Genetic mutations: Changes in the DNA that control cell growth can result in tumor formation.
• Hereditary conditions: Conditions such as neurofibromatosis (NF) and von Hippel-Lindau disease are linked to an increased risk of developing intramedullary spinal tumors.
• Exposure to radiation: Previous radiation treatments to the spine or other areas may increase the likelihood of spinal tumors.
• Metastatic spread: In rare cases, tumors from other parts of the body can spread to the spinal cord.

Understanding the potential causes can help in developing treatment strategies and monitoring high-risk individuals.

When to See a Consultant

You should consider seeing a consultant if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent, unexplained back or neck pain that worsens over time.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs, especially if it affects both sides of the body.
• Difficulty walking or maintaining balance.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control.
• Progressive worsening of symptoms despite rest or standard treatments.

Early consultation with a specialist can lead to prompt diagnosis, preventing further deterioration of neurological function.