Metastatic Spine Tumors

Metastatic spine tumors are malignant (cancerous) growths that originate in other parts of the body and metastasize (spread) to the spine. These tumors can affect the vertebrae (bones of the spine), the spinal cord, or the surrounding nerves, leading to significant pain, neurological impairment, and, in severe cases, paralysis.

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• What Are Metastatic Spine Tumors?
• What Are Signs and Symptoms of Metastatic Spine Tumors?/a>
• How Do You Diagnose Metastatic Spine Tumors?
• How Do You Treat Metastatic Spine Tumors?

What Are Metastatic Spine Tumors?

Metastatic spine tumors are malignant (cancerous) growths that originate in other parts of the body and metastasize (spread) to the spine. These tumors can affect the vertebrae (bones of the spine), the spinal cord, or the surrounding nerves, leading to significant pain, neurological impairment, and, in severe cases, paralysis.

Common sources of metastatic spine tumors

Certain types of cancer are more likely to spread to the spine.

The most common sources include:

• Breast cancer.
• Lung cancer.
• Prostate cancer.
• Renal (kidney) cancer.
• Gastrointestinal cancers.
• Thyroid cancer.

Where do metastatic spine tumors occur?

Metastatic spine tumors most commonly develop in the thoracic spine (mid-back) and lumbar spine (lower back). They are less frequently found in the cervical spine (neck region).

Complications of metastatic spine tumors

If left untreated, metastatic spine tumors can lead to serious complications, including:

• Spinal cord compression – Tumors pressing on the spinal cord can cause nerve damage and paralysis.
• Spinal instability – Tumor-related bone destruction can weaken the spine, increasing the risk of fractures.
• Pain and neurological issues – Tumors can affect nerves, causing pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of function.
• Hypercalcemia – Elevated calcium levels in the blood, which can result from bone breakdown, leading to symptoms like fatigue, nausea, and confusion.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Metastatic Spine Tumors?

Symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s location, size, and impact on the spinal cord and nerves. Common symptoms include:

• Difficulty walking – Which may lead to falls or instability.
• Loss of bladder or bowel control – Due to nerve compression.
• Pain radiating to other areas – Including the hips, legs, feet, or arms.
• Persistent back or neck pain – A deep ache or sharp, shooting pain that worsens over time.
• Weakness or numbness – Particularly in the arms or legs.
• Paralysis – In severe cases where the tumor compresses the spinal cord.

If you experience neurological symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage.

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How Do You Diagnose Metastatic Spine Tumors?

Your doctor will begin with a comprehensive medical history review and a physical and neurological examination. If a metastatic spine tumor is suspected, further diagnostic tests may include:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – Provides detailed images of the spinal cord, nerves, and surrounding tissues.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan – Offers detailed images of the bones and helps assess spinal stability.
• Myelogram – A specialized x-ray using contrast dye to evaluate spinal cord compression.
• Biopsy – A sample of tumor tissue may be taken to confirm the diagnosis and determine the cancer type.

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How Do You Treat Metastatic Spine Tumors?

Treatment options for metastatic spine tumors depend on several factors, including the tumor’s size, location, and impact on spinal stability and neurological function.

Surgery for metastatic spine tumors

Surgical resection (removal) of the tumor may be recommended when it is compressing the spinal cord or causing instability.

The type of surgery depends on the tumor’s location and size:

• Traditional surgery – Involves making an incision over the tumor and carefully removing affected tissues while preserving spinal function.
• Minimally invasive surgery – Uses smaller incisions and specialized instruments to reduce recovery time and complications.

Patients typically stay in the hospital for several days post-surgery for monitoring and rehabilitation.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy may be used to:

• Shrink tumors that cannot be surgically removed.
• Relieve pain and reduce tumor-related spinal cord compression.
• Prevent tumor recurrence.

Stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS)

This advanced noninvasive treatment delivers highly focused radiation beams directly to the tumor with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It is particularly effective for smaller tumors and those located in sensitive areas of the spine.

Chemotherapy and targeted therapy

For tumors that cannot be surgically removed, chemotherapy or targeted drug therapy may be used to slow tumor growth and manage symptoms.

Pain management and rehabilitation

Since metastatic spine tumors can cause significant pain and neurological deficits, pain management strategies and rehabilitation therapy are critical components of treatment.

Options include:

• Pain-relieving medications – Including anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and opioids for severe pain.
• Physical therapy – To help regain strength and mobility after surgery.
• Occupational therapy – To assist with daily activities and improve quality of life.

Our expert team provides state-of-the-art care for metastatic spine tumors. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, schedule a consultation with our specialists today.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.