Overview

What Are Tumors of the Spine?

Spine tumors are a mass of abnormal cells that exist within the bones of the spine and sacrum or within the spinal canal. Tumors within the spinal canal originate from the sack surrounding the spinal cord (dura), the nerves or the spinal cord itself.

Tumors are either benign or malignant; benign tumors do not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other areas of the body. However, they can cause problems when they place pressure on surrounding tissues, such as the spinal cord or nerves. 

Malignant tumors can invade surrounding tissues, as well as spread to other parts of the body. However, it’s important to remember that a spine tumor can be life-threatening and cause permanent disability whether it’s cancerous or not.