Spine Tumors in Children
What are spine tumors?
A spine tumor is an abnormal tissue growth within or next to the spinal cord. Spine tumors in children are very rare.
Spine tumors can be benign or malignant. Benign tumors are not cancerous and don't spread from their original location. Malignant tumors are cancerous and can spread cancer cells to other parts of the body.
Spine tumors, whether benign or malignant, can place pressure on the spinal cord and block the blood vessels that nourish spinal cord cells. This can seriously affect movement and can eventually cause paralysis.
What causes spine tumors in children?
The cause of most spine tumors is unknown. In rare cases, spine tumors in children may be caused by genetic diseases or exposure to radiation or cancer-causing chemicals.
What are the signs of spine tumors in children?
Spinal cord tumors grow slowly so symptoms usually develop gradually and get worse over time. Symptoms vary from patient to patient and can include the following:
Some of these symptoms can be difficult to recognize in very young children. Regular checkups with a pediatrician are very important.
How are spine tumors diagnosed?
If your child is showing symptoms of a spine tumor, it's important to get a neurosurgical assessment. If left untreated, spine tumors can cause permanent damage.
The multi-disciplinary spine team of neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center will start the assessment with a discussion of your child's health history and a thorough physical examination. A detailed neurological evaluation may also be performed. Diagnostic tests may include:
How are spine tumors in children treated?
Spine tumors in children can be managed well and successfully treated.
Most spinal cord tumors are removed surgically. This alleviates the pressure on the spinal column. Once the tumor has been removed, a pathologist examines it. If the pathologist determines the tumor is benign, additional treatment is not necessary. If the tumor is malignant, additional treatment is required. Additional treatment may include:
Follow up therapy after surgery may include physical therapy to restore body function and improve strength.
Why Le Bonheur Children's?
The spine team at Le Bonheur Children's Medical Center are some of the most well respected pediatric surgeons in the United States. The hospital's spine program is dedicated to the treatment and research of pediatric spinal conditions. Children from across the country visit Le Bonheur each year for treatment.
