Diagnosis of tumors in the spinal canal by what medical techniques?

This is an automatically translated article.

The article was professionally consulted by Doctor Nguyen Thi Mai Anh - Radiologist - Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Nuclear Medicine - Vinmec Times City International Hospital

Tumor in the spinal canal is a disease that can cause dangerous complications, even disability if not treated promptly. Accurate diagnosis of intraluminal tumors is of great significance in making treatment regimens.

1. General information about tumors in the spinal canal

1.1. What is a tumor in the spinal canal?

Tumors in the spinal canal are tissue formations that appear and grow abnormally in the spinal canal or around the spine. Tumors that grow will put pressure on the spine, causing serious damage to the spinal cord. If these tumors form inside the spine or spinal cord, they are called primary intraluminal tumors. In contrast, tumors originating in the spinal canal are tumors that have metastasized from other organs, which are secondary intraluminal tumors.
Based on the location of the tumor's location, tumors in the spinal canal are divided into 3 different types such as:
Epidural tumors. Tumor intradural – extramedullary. Spinal cord tumor.

1.2. Symptoms of tumors in the spinal canal

As noted, the majority of patients will present symptoms of back pain from mild to severe. In some cases, there will be no symptoms. Although the signs of tumors in the spinal canal are different for each patient, they will all share the following symptoms:
Back pain Back pain usually occurs in the lower back or upper neck. However, patients with tumors in the spinal canal may experience upper or middle back pain. Up to half of patients have tumors in the thoracic canal.
The degree of back pain can range from mild to throbbing. There may be pain in certain areas of the back or pain along a nerve root or spinal cord that radiates to the chest, abdomen, legs, and arms. As noted, many patients appear to have back pain much at night or wake up early in the morning.
Low back and neck pain This case doesn't happen often, but it's not unheard of. In addition to back pain, the patient may appear with symptoms such as:
Loss of appetite. Losing weight without a plan. Constantly feeling chills, shivering; Nausea and vomiting. Altered bladder function.

1.3. What causes tumors in the spinal canal?

Currently, experts have not found out the exact cause of tumors in the spinal canal. However, some causes are given and are related to tumors in the spinal canal such as:
People have inherited defective genes or develop on their own. Patients are often exposed to toxic chemical environments. People with inherited syndromes such as neurofibromatosis type 2 and Von Hippel-Lindau disease.

2. Diagnosis of tumors in the spinal canal by any medical technique?

Techniques to help diagnose tumors in the spinal canal, including:

2.1. X-ray

This is done by using X-rays to show up images of the spine and joints. X-ray plays a role in screening for diseases that can cause back pain in patients. However, this technique is not effective in detecting tumors.

2.2. Computerized tomography

Computed tomography (CT) scans provide clear images of bone, spinal canal, and surrounding structures.

2.3. Magnetic resonance imaging

This is an accurate, modern imaging method that gives 3D images of the body. The technique allows a clear view of the spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding structures.

2.4. Positron emission tomography (PET)

PET scan allows to assess whether an abnormality in the spine is a tumor. This method is performed by introducing a small amount of radioactive material into the body through an injection to identify areas of increased metabolism of these radioactive substances by tumor cells.

2.5. Biopsy

Once the location and size of the tumor has been determined through diagnostic images, the doctor will conduct a percutaneous biopsy or a surgical biopsy to search for information.

2.6. Blood tests

Blood tests not only help screen for tumors in the spinal canal, but also evaluate whether it is a secondary or primary tumor.
Note:
Before assigning the above techniques, the specialist doctor will perform a history check or general physical examination for the patient. Be sure to provide complete information about your medical history and symptoms to your doctor. As a result, the treatment process will be more effective.
At the same time, the doctor will conduct some tests in the arms and legs to check strength, sensation and reflexes.

3. Treatment of tumors in the spinal canal

3.1. Non-surgical treatment of tumors in the spinal canal

For cases of tumors in the spinal canal at a mild stage, not yet necessary for surgical intervention, the doctor will appoint a follow-up doctor through periodic MRI scans. In addition, the doctor may conduct chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Many patients with tumors in the spinal canal respond well to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, which improves the disease markedly.

3.2. Tumor surgery in the spinal canal

The doctor appoints surgery with the tumors in the primary spinal canal in order to completely treat the disease and prevent the symptoms. In the case of metastatic spinal tumors, surgery only stops at the palliative effect to restore and preserve the patient's nerve function.

Patients need to go to a reputable hospital to conduct examination and treatment as soon as there are signs of tumors in the spinal canal. Currently, Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the leading prestigious hospitals in the country, trusted by a large number of patients for medical examination and treatment. Not only the physical system, modern equipment: 6 ultrasound rooms, 4 DR X-ray rooms (1 full-axis machine, 1 light machine, 1 general machine and 1 mammography machine) , 2 DR portable X-ray machines, 2 multi-row CT scanner rooms (1 128 rows and 1 16 arrays), 2 Magnetic resonance imaging rooms (1 3 Tesla and 1 1.5 Tesla), 1 room for 2 levels of interventional angiography and 1 room to measure bone mineral density.... Vinmec is also the place to gather a team of experienced doctors and nurses who will greatly assist in diagnosis and detection. early signs of abnormality in the patient's body. In particular, with a space designed according to 5-star hotel standards, Vinmec ensures to bring the patient the most comfort, friendliness and peace of mind.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.