Epidural spinal tumors in children

Abstract

Extradural spine tumors in the pediatric population are a relatively rare occurrence and constitute a heterogeneous group of pathologies. Management is dictated by tumor location, specific tumor pathology, as well as the severity of neurologic symptoms at presentation. Because of their rarity, optimal management of spinal cord compression (SCC) secondary to epidural spinal tumors in children remains controversial. Potential therapeutic interventions include decompressive and/or resective surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of the three. Spinal radiosurgery may play an increasing role in the management of these tumors in the future. © 2010 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.