Dr. Stefano Sinicropi, M.D.

Spinal tumors can develop in many different forms, and one of the more severe forms is a malignant tumor. These types of tumors have cells that can grow uncontrollably and spread locally or to other areas of the body. They are cancerous by nature and require prompt treatment to reduce the likelihood that they spread to other parts of the body. In this blog, we take a closer look at some of the different forms of malignant tumors that can form in the spine, and we touch on the most common types of treatment.

Types Of Malignant Spinal Tumors

Here’s a look at some of the types of malignant tumors that can develop within the spinal column.

• Chondrosarcoma – This type of tumor develops from the cartilage cells around the bone. It is not all that common in the spine, and while it tends to be slow-growing and present with few symptoms at the outset, treatment is necessary to prevent the potential for its spread.
• Chordoma – This is a malignant type of bone tumor that is most commonly seen in the sacrum, which is a bone near the base of the spine, although it can form anywhere inside the spinal column.
• Ewing Sarcoma – A Ewing sarcoma is a cancer that affects the cells in bones and certain soft tissues. It is a rare type of cancer that usually causes pain and swelling at the site of the tumor.
• Lymphoma – Lymphoma is a group of cancers that can affect the cells of your immune system known as lymphocytes. This type of cancer typically spreads to the spine from another area of your body, but it can develop as a primary tumor as well.
• Multiple Myeloma – This is a type of cancer that causes problems for the plasma cells in your blood. These cells collect in your bone marrow and the outer layer of your bones, oftentimes in your spine.
• Osteosarcoma – An osteosarcoma is a type of bone cancer that typically develops in the osteoblast cells that help form your bones. It can develop as a primary tumor in your spine, but it is more common in the larger bones in your legs.

All of these types of malignant tumors will be treated based on a number of factors that are unique to the individual, so while treatment may vary, it will be aggressive in nature to ensure that doctors can prevent the cancer from spreading. Common types of malignant spinal tumor treatments include:

• Chemotherapy
• Full Excision
• Partial Excision
• Radiation Therapy
• Steroids

Many forms of cancerous spinal masses have a great track record of successful treatment if the condition can be caught and addressed in an early stage, which is why you should never ignore symptoms. If you want to talk to a specialist about a new or worsening back issue that you’ve been dealing with, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi and his team today at (651) 430-3800.

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