Spinal cancer

Several types of tumour can start in the spinal cord. If you are diagnosed with spinal cancer or spinal cord tumours, you will have immediate access to our world-leading consultants and state-of-the-art hospitals.

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Spinal imagery

About spinal cancer

Most cancer in the spine arises within the bones, having spread from elsewhere in the body. Occasionally tumours may arise directly from the tissues of the nervous system. Both benign and malignant spinal cancers cause signs and symptoms that require treatment.

Types of spinal cancer

Ependymomas

Ependymomas belong to a group of tumours called gliomas. They can start in the spinal cord or brain.

Nerve-sheath tumours

A type of tumour that originates in the central nervous system (CNS) in the spinal cord.

Need to know 

Symptoms of spinal cancer may include:

  • back or neck pain that does not get better with rest
  • numbness, tingling or weakness in the arms or legs
  • a change in normal bowel or bladder habits
  • loss of appetite, unplanned weight loss, nausea, vomiting or generally feeling unwell

You will have imaging tests to diagnose spinal cancer. This may include:

  • an MRI scan of the brain and spine
  • CT scan
  • X-ray

Treatment options will depend on your age, general health and the position, size and type of the tumour you have. They may include:

  • Steroid injections to help control the symptoms.
  • Surgery. Your consultant will attempt to remove the entire tumour, or as much of it as possible (debulking surgery).
  • Radiotherapy. This may be used after surgery or as the main treatment if surgery is not possible.
  • Anti-cancer drugs such as chemotherapy.

 

Our Spinal cancer locations

The Christie Private Care

The Christie Private Care

Wilmslow Road M20 4BX Manchester
The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

8A Wellington Place NW8 9LE London
London Bridge Hospital

London Bridge Hospital

27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
Leaders in Oncology Care

Leaders in Oncology Care

95-97 Harley Street W1G 6AF London
Private Care at Guy's

Private Care at Guy's

London Bridge Hospital Private Care at Guy's SE1 9RT London

Patient stories

Hear from past patients about their experience

This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.