How do they check for spinal cancer?

As a medical professional with expertise in oncology, I can explain the process of diagnosing spinal cancer. Spinal cancer can be challenging to diagnose because its symptoms often overlap with those of other conditions. Here's how doctors typically check for spinal cancer: 1. Medical History and Physical Examination: Doctors will begin with a comprehensive review of the patient's medical history and a physical examination to identify any signs or symptoms that may suggest spinal cancer. 2. Imaging Tests: If the initial assessment suggests the possibility of a spinal tumor, imaging tests such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans are often the next step. These tests can reveal abnormal areas within the spinal cord that may indicate the presence of a tumor. 3. Biopsy: In many cases, imaging tests alone are not sufficient to determine the exact nature of a tumor. A spinal cord tumor biopsy may be necessary to obtain a tissue sample. This sample is then examined under a microscope to determine the type of cells present and whether they are cancerous. 4. Additional Tests: Depending on the findings, doctors may order additional tests such as a blood test to look for certain markers that could indicate cancer, or a bone scan to see if the cancer has spread to the bones. 5. Neurological Examination: Patients may also undergo a neurological examination to assess the function of the nerves and to look for any signs of nerve damage that could be associated with spinal cancer. 6. Surgical Consultation: If a tumor is suspected, a consultation with a neurosurgeon or an orthopedic surgeon may be necessary to discuss potential treatment options, including surgery. It's important to note that not all spinal tumors are cancerous; some may be benign. However, any tumor can cause significant health problems if it compresses the spinal cord or nerves.

Brain or spinal cord tumor biopsy. Imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans may show an abnormal area that is likely to be a brain or spinal cord tumor. But often these scans can't tell exactly what type of tumor it is.