Spinal tumours are rare, and the related symptoms often resemble those of other health conditions. Hence, tumours are overlooked or go undetected. This is the reason why consulting a qualified, experienced and trusted spine specialist is necessary who will conduct a thorough medical investigation.
The complete medical history will be checked followed by general, physical and neurological tests and scans to understand the case at hand.
If you live in Chennai and suffer from spinal cord disorders or diseases, consult Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj. He is one of the best spine specialists in Bangalore and Chennai who has successfully treated countless patients with spine problems.
Spinal Tumour Diagnosis
Find out more about the tests generally advised by doctors if a spinal tumour is suspected.
- Blood Tests
- Blood tests are advised to check the blood cell count and the hormone levels.
- Neurological Examination
In a neurological examination, the doctor will check the following:
- Symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness.
- Difficulty in walking
- Micturition and defecation disturbances
- Along with loss of sensation below a particular level
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI):
MRI scans utilize magnetic fields and radio waves to generate multiple images of the spine. In addition, it provides accurate insights about the spinal cord, nerves and surrounding tissues, which in turn helps in the detection of spinal tumours. A contrast agent is administered into the vein to make the images better. Plus, the loud sound of the machine accompanies the MRI scan.
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Scan:
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy is almost similar to the MRI scan discussed above with few changes. This scan detects any chemical change in the spine which indicates a tumour. The chemical components from the scan can help the spine doctor to analyse the type of spinal tumour affecting the patient.
Magnetic Resonance Perfusion Scan:
MR Perfusion scan is another test which helps a spine doctor to determine the growth characteristics of a spinal tumour. It helps in locating the tumour and conducting a biopsy. Similar to the MRI scan, a contrast agent is injected. The MR Perfusion helps in finding out the amount of blood that has entered the spine and tumour.
Myelography:
Myelography is an imaging test. It is advised when MRI and MR Perfusion scans cannot be done. This is usually the case when the patient has a pacemaker or of he or she underwent an MRP test recently. Myelography test help doctors to check if the spinal cord is compressed or inflamed. The test also shows the tumour outline, which helps in planning surgery or radiation therapy.
Spinal Angiography:
Spinal angiography is a procedure done to examine blood vessels in the spinal cord tumour. The doctor can get details like size and the number of blood vessels which helps in preventing blood loss during surgery.
Positron emission tomography (PET):
Positron emission tomography or PET scan helps in making a distinction between a malignant and benign spinal tumour. In this test, radioactive sugar is injected into a vein. As cancer cells absorb sugar faster, this test is thus recommended by doctors. PET scans, along with possible spinal cord cancer symptoms can help doctors in faster diagnosis.
Biopsy:
In a biopsy, a small amount of fluid or tissue from the tumour is removed and examined under the microscope. It can reveal whether the tumour is malignant or benign. Plus, it can help the doctor to know where the tumour began.
To know in-depth about diagnostic tests, spinal cord tumour causes and treatment options, always consult a spine specialist.
Best Spinal Cord Injury Doctors in Chennai:
Dr. Vignesh Pushparaj is one of the leading spine specialists and surgeons in Chennai. He has a great track record of successfully treating patients with complex spine problems. With training in Kolkata, Netherlands and the USA, he is an expert in chronic pain management as well.
If you are a resident of Chennai and suffer from spinal diseases, contact us today for more details. Dr. Vignesh also provides the best spinal cord tumour treatment in Chennai.
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