Overview
A vertebral tumor is a growth of cells that occurs in the bones of the spine. The spine is made up of many small vertebrae stacked on top of one another, which hold the body upright and enclose and protect the spinal cord. Vertebral tumors can be cancerous or not cancerous. A noncancerous vertebral tumor is also known as a benign vertebral tumor, while a cancerous vertebral tumor is known as a malignant vertebral tumor.
Types of Vertebral tumor
- Benign vertebral tumors: These are noncancerous growths that do not spread to other parts of the body.
- Malignant vertebral tumors: These are cancerous growths that can spread to other parts of the body.
- Metastatic cancer: This is when cancer spreads from an organ to another part of the body.
- Primary bone tumors: These are rare growths that start in the bones of the spine and have not spread from somewhere else.
Causes of Vertebral tumor
- Cancer: Most malignant vertebral tumors are caused by cancer that starts somewhere else in the body and spreads to the spine.
- Cancer that affects blood cells and bone marrow: Cancers that affect the blood cells and bone marrow can also cause malignant vertebral tumors.
Risk Factors of Vertebral tumor
- Age: The risk of developing a vertebral tumor increases with age.
- Family history: Having a family history of cancer can increase the risk of developing a vertebral tumor.
- Genetic disorders: Certain genetic disorders, such as multiple myeloma, can increase the risk of developing a vertebral tumor.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy to treat other conditions can increase the risk of developing a vertebral tumor.
Symptoms of Vertebral tumor
1. Back Pain: Pain in the back or neck may be a symptom of a vertebral tumor.
2. Weakness or numbness: Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs may be a symptom of a vertebral tumor.
3. Loss of bladder or bowel control: Loss of bladder or bowel control may be a symptom of a vertebral tumor that is compressing the spinal cord.
4. Pain or numbness in the arms or legs: Pain or numbness in the arms or legs may be a symptom of a vertebral tumor.
Preventions of Vertebral tumor
- Regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect any changes in the spine early on.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly can help reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer.
- Screening tests: Screening tests for certain types of cancer can help detect any abnormalities early on.
Complications:
- Spinal cord compression: A vertebral tumor can compress the spinal cord, leading to weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.
- Neurological symptoms: A vertebral tumor can cause neurological symptoms such as pain or numbness in the arms or legs.
- Spinal instability: A vertebral tumor can cause spinal instability, leading to back pain or stiffness.
Diagnosis of Vertebral tumor
- Medical history: A healthcare provider will take a medical history to identify any potential risk factors for developing a vertebral tumor.
- Physical examination: A physical examination will be performed to assess any signs of pain or weakness in the back or neck.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans may be used to visualize the spine and detect any abnormalities.
Treatment for Vertebral tumor
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to remove the tumor and relieve any pressure on the spinal cord.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to treat malignant vertebral tumors.
- Medications: Medications such as chemotherapy may be used to treat malignant vertebral tumors.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy may be used to relieve pain and improve mobility.
When to seek medical attention ?
If you are experiencing symptoms such as back pain, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, loss of bladder or bowel control, or pain or numbness in the arms or legs, you should seek medical attention immediately.
