Spinal cord tumor
Spinal Cord Tumor
A Spinal Cord Tumor (pronunciation: /ˈspaɪnəl kɔːrd ˈtjuːmər/) is a growth that develops within the spinal cord or in the area surrounding it.
Etymology
The term "Spinal Cord Tumor" is derived from the Latin words "spina" meaning "thorn", "cordis" meaning "heart", and the Latinized Greek word "tumour" meaning "swelling".
Definition
A Spinal Cord Tumor is a non-normal growth of cells in the spinal cord. It can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). The tumor can occur in any part of the spinal cord, from the neck to the lower back.
Types
There are several types of Spinal Cord Tumors, including:
- Intramedullary Tumors: These tumors begin in the cells within the spinal cord itself.
- Extramedullary Tumors: These tumors grow in the area around the spinal cord but do not actually originate from the spinal cord cells.
- Metastatic Tumors: These are tumors that have spread to the spinal cord from other parts of the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Tumor can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:
- Back pain
- Loss of sensation in the legs or arms
- Difficulty walking
- Loss of bowel or bladder control
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a Spinal Cord Tumor typically involves a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and imaging tests such as an MRI or a CT scan. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for a Spinal Cord Tumor depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spinal cord tumor
- Wikipedia's article - Spinal cord tumor
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