The spinal cord, like the brain, performs vital functions in the body - reflex and conduction, which allow a person to live and move. Spinal cord tumors refer not only to those that arise in the cerebrospinal fluid but also to formations between the vertebrae and in the soft tissues in the area of the spine. All of them develop in a similar manner and are characterized by compression syndrome.
Causes
To date, unfortunately, science in Israel and other countries has not come any closer to determining the causes of spinal cord tumors. We can only identify stress factors - these include exposure to carcinogens, spinal lymphoma, neurofibromatosis type 2, genetic predisposition, and von Hippel-Lindau disease.
Symptoms of Spinal Cord Tumors
All tumors in the spinal cord area have the characteristic of developing dynamically. Pain occurs at the site of the neoplasm, which in the early stages of the disease may appear intermittently. As the disease progresses, the intensity of the pain increases, dysfunctions in the organs located below the level of the lesion manifest, and fatigue in the legs occurs during walking. In the next stage, the functioning of the pelvic organs is disrupted. Gradually, sensitivity to everything located below the tumor's position fades, leading to paralysis.
Diagnosis of Spinal Cord Tumors in Israel
A doctor suspecting a tumor in a patient will order an examination. In Israel, modern diagnostic methods are used. The most effective are magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. These methods of investigation will provide comprehensive information about the presence of a spinal cord tumor, after which a biopsy is performed to determine the nature of the cells in the neoplasm.
Treatment of Spinal Cord Tumors in Israel
Benign tumors are most often treated surgically. In Israel, the latest microsurgical techniques are used in tumor surgery, and operations on the spinal cord are performed using the laminectomy method (opening the spinal canal by removing the vertebral arches). Concurrently, pain relief and strengthening medications may be administered. Malignant tumors are inoperable. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are ineffective in treating spinal cord tumors. The only prevention of spinal cord tumors is timely detection of the disease, which gives a high chance of recovery. After treatment, for preventive purposes, it is advisable to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat rationally, walk in the fresh air, and avoid overloading the body.