Spinal Cord Tumors

Diagnosis

Spinal cord astrocytoma

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The most critical step in diagnosing a spinal cord tumor is an accurate history and physical examination to help pinpoint the affected area. Next, imaging is performed to visualize the suspected tumor. Mayo Clinic uses high-field-strength MRI scanners to find smaller tumors that can be missed on lower-power scanners. Results generally are available to the neurologist within 24 hours of testing in Mayo's state-of-the-art electronic medical record. Once a tumor is found, a biopsy (tissue sample) is done and the tissue analyzed by a neuropathologist to determine the type of tumor, which determines the most appropriate treatment.

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
  MRI uses magnetic fields and radio energy instead of X-rays to create images. MRI is much more commonly used than CT scan for imaging the spine. MRI can often distinguish accurately between healthy and diseased tissue and yields better pictures of tumors located near bone than CT. Scans can be reconstructed to create a 3-D image of the tumor. A contrast agent that causes tumors to enhance (light up) may be used.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
  A CT scan creates a sectional view of the body. A CT scan is often combined with a myelogram.
• Myelogram
  During a myelogram, a special dye that absorbs X-rays is injected into the spinal cord. This dye outlines the spinal cord but is blocked by a tumor, which shows as a dark area or narrowing on the X-ray.

Interpreting imaging results correctly can be challenging. For instance, a recent Mayo Clinic study found that 9 percent of tumors thought to be enhanced (light up) by a contrast agent in fact don't. Summary of this study.

Learn more details about brain tumor diagnosis.