Spinal tumors are abnormal growths that develop in various areas of the spine, usually causing compression of the spinal cord. In most cases, they result from metastasis of a tumor located in other parts of the body. Depending on their location, they can be:

• Extradural tumors, affecting the vertebral
• Intradural extramedullary tumors, affecting the structures of the spinal canal, except for the spinal cord and nerve roots;
• Intramedullary tumors, which tend to infiltrate the spinal cord.
  

Pain is the most common symptom in spinal tumors. Other symptoms may include:

• Tingling in the limbs (paresthesia);
• Generalized weakness (asthenia);
• Difficulty controlling the anal and bladder sphincters;
• Difficulty walking.
  

The diagnosis can be suspected based on the characteristics of the pain. Imaging tests help identify the condition and guide the most appropriate therapeutic approach. Typically, the following tests are conducted:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI);
• Computed tomography (CT);
• Positron emission tomography (PET) if vertebral metastasis is suspected;
• Neurological studies in case of spinal cord involvement.
  

In recent years, especially with the development of modern chemotherapy and radiotherapy techniques, more effective clinical protocols have been developed, allowing for the radical removal of vertebral tumors. Surgical treatment is the only option in cases where medical therapies are ineffective and when improvement, even temporary, in quality of life and pain relief is desired.