Pediatric Spinal Tumors
1. Overview
Pediatric spinal tumors are abnormal growths in or around the spinal cord that occur in children and adolescents. These tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can affect the spinal cord, nerve roots, or vertebrae, leading to problems with movement, sensation, and overall neurological function.
Early diagnosis and specialized treatment are critical to prevent long-term neurological complications.
2. Types
We treat a wide range of spinal tumors in children, classified based on their location:
Intramedullary Tumors (Within Spinal Cord)
- Astrocytoma
- Ependymoma
Extramedullary Tumors (Outside Spinal Cord)
- Meningioma
- Nerve sheath tumors (Schwannoma, Neurofibroma)
Vertebral (Bone) Tumors
- Osteoid osteoma
- Ewing’s sarcoma
- Metastatic tumors (rare in children)
Each condition requires a precise and individualized pediatric neurosurgical approach.
3. Causes & Risk Factors
The exact cause of most pediatric spinal tumors is unknown, but contributing factors may include:
• Genetic disorders (e.g., neurofibromatosis)
• Abnormal cell growth
• Previous radiation exposure (rare)
• Congenital abnormalities
Understanding the underlying cause helps guide effective treatment planning.
4. Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms of spinal cord tumors in children may develop gradually and should not be ignored.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Persistent back pain (especially at night)
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Difficulty walking or imbalance
- Numbness or tingling
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Spinal deformity (in some cases)
Early recognition is key to preventing permanent nerve damage.
5. Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential for proper management of childhood spinal tumors.
Diagnostic Methods:
- MRI Spine (Gold standard)
- CT Scan
- X-rays (for bone involvement)
- Biopsy (to confirm tumor type)
- Neurological examination
Advanced imaging helps in precise tumor localization and surgical planning.
