How are spinal tumors diagnosed?
Spinal tumors may cause symptoms that are very similar to other back, neck or nervous system disorders. These symptoms may include pain, numbness, weakness, abnormal sensations in the extremities, bowel or urinary incontinence, or muscle function loss. To obtain an accurate diagnosis, your spine center physician will study your medical history and conduct a thorough medical examination. You may also be advised to have X-rays, a computerized tomography (CT) scan; a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or a myelogram (an X-ray or CT scan that is done after a contrasting dye has been injected). In some cases, a sample of your cerebral spinal fluid will be collected for analysis. With these tests, your physician can characterize the location and type of tumor that may exist.
