Pediatric Spinal Cord Tumours, Spinal Cord Tumours in Children

What are Spinal Cord Tumours in Children?

Spinal cord tumours in children are abnormal growths that develop within or around the spinal cord. These tumours may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can interfere with the normal functioning of the spinal cord and nerves. Although they are relatively rare, spinal cord tumours in children require prompt evaluation and treatment to prevent complications such as nerve damage, developmental delays, and paralysis.

Types of Paediatric Spinal Cord Tumours

Paediatric spinal cord tumours are classified based on their location and nature:

By Location

• Intramedullary Tumours: These develop within the spinal cord itself and are often caused by tumours such as astrocytomas or ependymomas. Intramedullary tumours are the most common type in children.

• Extramedullary Tumours: These occur outside the spinal cord but within the surrounding protective layers (meninges) or spaces. They can compress the spinal cord and include tumours such as meningiomas or schwannomas.

By Nature

• Benign Tumours: These are non-cancerous and grow slowly, often remaining confined to a single area. Examples include lipomas and some types of schwannomas.

• Malignant Tumours: These are cancerous and can grow aggressively, potentially spreading to other parts of the body. Examples include certain ependymomas or metastatic tumours from other primary cancers.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Tumours in Children

The symptoms of spinal cord tumours in children depend on the location, size, and rate of growth of the tumour. Common symptoms include:

• Back or Neck Pain: Persistent pain that may worsen at night or with activity.

• Weakness or Numbness: Reduced strength or sensation in the arms or legs.

• Difficulty Walking: Problems with balance or coordination.

• Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: Symptoms such as incontinence or difficulty urinating.

• Spinal Deformities: Visible curvature of the spine or abnormal posture, often due to tumour growth.

• General Symptoms: Fatigue, weight loss, or decreased appetite may indicate more serious cases.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis is crucial for planning appropriate treatment. Steps typically include:

• Imaging:

  • MRI is the gold standard for visualising spinal cord tumours and determining their size, location, and characteristics.

  • CT scans may be used to assess bone involvement or abnormalities.

• Neurological Examination: A detailed assessment of motor, sensory, and reflex functions to identify nerve or spinal cord compression.

• Biopsy: In some cases, a sample of the tumour may be taken to confirm its type and whether it is benign or malignant.

Treatment Options: Treatment for spinal cord tumours in children is tailored to the type, size, and location of the tumour, as well as the child’s overall health. Options include:

• Observation:

  • Small, benign tumours that are not causing symptoms may be monitored with regular imaging.

• Surgery:

  • Surgery is often the first line of treatment to remove as much of the tumour as possible.

  • Complete removal is ideal, but in some cases, tumours near critical structures may require partial removal.

• Radiotherapy:

  • Used for malignant tumours or cases where complete surgical removal is not possible.

  • Advanced techniques like stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) minimise damage to healthy tissues.

• Chemotherapy:

  • Particularly useful for malignant or recurrent tumours, chemotherapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatments.

• Rehabilitation:

  • Physical therapy and occupational therapy help children regain strength, mobility, and independence after treatment.

Conclusion

Spinal cord tumours in children, while rare, require timely and specialised care to prevent long-term complications. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment plans can significantly improve outcomes. At Singapore Brain Spine Nerves Center, we provide comprehensive care for paediatric spinal cord tumours, ensuring your child receives the best possible treatment in a supportive environment. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.