Spinal tumors are abnormal growths of tissue that develop in or near the spinal cord. These tumors can put pressure on sensitive nerve tissues, causing chronic pain and impairing normal daily function.
As a spinal tumor grows, it may compress nerves, blood vessels, or bones within the spine, leading to a range of symptoms. The severity and type of symptoms depend on the tumor’s size, location, and whether it is benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
If left untreated, spinal tumors can result in severe complications, including spinal deformities, nerve damage, and even paralysis.
What Are Spinal Tumors and Lesions?
Spinal tumors are masses of abnormal cells that develop in or around the spinal cord.
They can be classified into three main categories based on their location:
- Intramedullary tumors – These tumors grow inside the spinal cord itself.
- Intradural-extramedullary tumors – These grow within (the meninges — the protective membranes surrounding the spinal cord — but outside the spinal cord itself.
- Extradural tumors – These form outside the spinal cord and meninges, often involving the vertebrae (spine bones).
Spinal lesions, which may or may not be tumors, refer to any abnormal tissue change in or around the spinal cord. Some lesions are noncancerous but can still cause significant symptoms due to their location.
Types of spinal tumors and lesions
UPMC’s specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of spinal tumors, including:
- Hemangioblastoma – A rare, benign (noncancerous) vascular tumor that develops along the spine, often associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease.
- Meningioma – A tumor that arises from the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign, but some may become malignant.
- Metastatic tumor – Also called secondary spinal tumors, these cancers spread to the spine from other areas of the body, such as the lungs, breast, or prostate.
- Neurofibroma – A typically benign tumor that forms on the nerve sheath, the protective covering around spinal nerve roots.
- Schwannoma – A slow-growing, usually benign tumor that originates in the Schwann cells, which produce the protective myelin sheath around nerves. Unlike neurofibromas, schwannomas tend to push the nerve aside rather than encasing it.
- Vascular malformation – Abnormal connections between arteries and veins within or near the spinal cord. These malformations can be congenital (present at birth) or develop after spinal trauma or surgery.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Tumors?
Symptoms of spinal tumors vary depending on their type, location, and size.
Common symptoms include:
- Back pain – Persistent, localized pain that may worsen at night or with activity.
- Bowel or bladder dysfunction – Loss of control or difficulty with urination and bowel movements.
- Muscle weakness – Progressive weakness in the arms or legs, leading to difficulty walking or balance issues.
- Nerve pain – Sharp, shooting pain that radiates to the arms, legs, or chest, depending on the tumor’s location.
- Numbness or tingling – A "pins and needles" sensation, particularly in the hands, feet, or extremities.
- Paralysis – Severe cases may result in partial or complete loss of movement in certain areas of the body.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience persistent back pain, muscle weakness, or any other neurological symptoms that interfere with daily activities, schedule an appointment with a specialist. Early detection is key to preventing serious complications.
How Do You Diagnose Spinal Tumors?
Diagnosing spinal tumors requires a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests. Your doctor may recommend:
- Biopsy – If necessary, a small sample of the tumor may be taken to determine whether it is benign or malignant.
- Computed tomography (CT) scan – Helps assess bone involvement and detect any spinal fractures caused by the tumor.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – The most effective imaging test for detecting spinal tumors, providing detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures.
- X-rays – Can reveal changes in the spinal bones but are not as detailed as MRI or CT scans.
How Do You Treat Spinal Tumors?
Treatment for spinal tumors depends on factors such as tumor type, location, and whether it is benign or malignant. At UPMC, our specialists offer advanced, minimally invasive treatment options whenever possible.
Surgical treatments
- Surgical resection (tumor removal) – The preferred treatment for tumors that can be safely removed. Surgery aims to completely excise the tumor while preserving nerve function.
- Spinal stabilization – In cases where a tumor weakens the spine, metal rods or bone grafts may be used to stabilize the affected area.
Nonsurgical treatments
- Radiation therapy – Used for tumors that cannot be surgically removed or for malignant tumors that require additional treatment.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) – A highly precise form of radiation therapy that targets tumors while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.
- Chemotherapy – Used primarily for malignant tumors that have spread to the spine.
- Pain management and rehabilitation – Physical therapy, pain medications, and other supportive treatments help improve function and quality of life.
Why Choose UPMC for Spinal Tumor Care?
UPMC’s expert team of neurosurgeons, oncologists, and rehabilitation specialists work together to develop a customized treatment plan for each patient. Our advanced treatment options, including minimally invasive surgery and precision radiation therapy, ensure the best possible outcomes while preserving spinal function.
By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.
