Spine tumours are abnormal growths within or around the spinal or vertebral canal. These tumours can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They can originate from the spinal cord, nerve roots, bones, and/or spine tissues.
Spine tumours can be primary – originating within the spine, or secondary (metastatic) – spreading from cancer in other parts of the body. As with all diseases, early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment.
There are three main types of spine tumours based on their location in the spine, these are:
The exact causes of primary spine tumours are not always clear and can vary between individuals. In many cases, the underlying cause remains unknown. Spine tumours can result from genetic mutations or changes in cells' deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), leading to abnormal growth(s).
Secondary spinal tumours occur when cancer in other parts of the body has metastasised and spread to the spinal cord. This happens when the cancer cells break away from the place of origin and travel through the blood or lymphatic system, thus spreading to other parts of the body, including the spine.
Symptoms of spine tumours include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, make an appointment today.
Yes, one of the main and early symptoms of spine tumours is persistent back pain. The intensity of the pain varies among individuals; it may increase as time passes and may spread to your feet, arms, hips, and legs.
Most spine tumours occur sporadically, often without identifiable reasons for their development. While some risk factors can contribute to these tumours' formation, most spine tumours occur without any known cause.
In Singapore, spine tumours can affect individuals of various ages and backgrounds. While no specific groups of people are exclusively at risk, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing spine tumours; these risk factors are:
Fortunately, most spine tumours are not cancerous. However, it is still crucial to seek medical attention to determine the nature of your tumour and create an appropriate management or treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
The treatment options for spine tumours in Singapore vary based on the type, location, and extent of the tumour, and your overall health.
Treatment options for spine tumours include:
Treatment is customised for each patient; this ensures that every patient receives targeted and personalised care.
No. Surgery may not always be required for spine tumours. The necessity of surgery depends on factors such as the type, size, location, and extent of the tumour.
Yes, there are non-surgical treatment options available for some spine tumours. These options may include radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and pain management techniques.
The recovery period after spine tumour treatment varies depending on the type of treatment, the extent of the tumour, and individual factors.
