Intradural spinal cord tumors

Abstract

Although rare, intramedullary spinal cord tumors reflect a disease process that requires knowledge of specific tumor types and the surgical techniques for resection of each. This chapter explores all major intramedullary neoplasms, including their epidemiology, patient symptoms, radiological features, treatment options, and outcomes. In general, patients may present with pain, motor and sensory deficits, and bowel and bladder symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging is required to determine not only the location of the lesion but also the radiological features that will guide diagnosis. Surgical management is the primary treatment modality. Outcome and survivability depend on the specific histology, grade, and surgical outcome of each tumor, but outcome is generally good, especially for grades I and II tumors. Adjuvant treatments including chemotherapy and radiation play a limited treatment role and are only used in select patients.