Spinal Tumor

Spine tumors can be categorized into two types: primary tumors and secondary (metastatic) tumors. Primary tumors originate from the spine and its surrounding structures, while secondary tumors spread from distant organs through the bloodstream or lymphatic system and are found in the spine and surrounding tissues. Understanding these tumors is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment.

The spine is particularly susceptible to metastatic tumors, accounting for 96 percent of all cases. This susceptibility is due to its high vascularity and close association with regional lymphatic and venous drainage systems, such as Batson's venous plexus. Common primary tumors, like adenocarcinomas, which typically originate in the lung, breast, prostate, kidney, gastrointestinal tract, and thyroid, can spread to the spine. Studies have shown that between 55 percent and 70 percent of cancer patients experience bone metastases before death, with breast cancer cases reaching 85 percent. In some cases, surgical intervention can help alleviate symptoms in up to 15 percent of individuals with symptomatic spinal metastases.

Spinal metastases are most commonly found in the thoracic and thoracolumbar spines (70 percent), while the lumbar spine and sacrum account for over 25 percent of cases. The cervical spine is a less common location for metastases.

Primary tumors of the spine are relatively rare and often asymptomatic, making it challenging to determine their true incidence. Hemangiomas and enostoses were previously considered the most common primary tumors, with an estimated occurrence rate of 12 to 14 percent. However, this figure is based on incidental findings during diagnostic procedures conducted for other reasons. Proper diagnosis of these asymptomatic lesions, which do not require treatment, can help avoid unnecessary diagnostic procedures. Malignancies originating from the skeletal system, excluding a few primary tumors like osteoblastoma and chordoma that tend to affect the spine, are rarely observed in this area. Differentiating primary spinal tumors from infections, particularly spinal infections, is crucial. Primary malignant tumors of the spine represent the least common type of tumor affecting the spine, accounting for only 12 percent of all bone and soft tissue sarcomas.