Intramedullary Tumors & Tumors of the Cauda Equina

An intramedullary tumor is a tumor that occurs within the substance of the spinal cord. It is often first detected because of symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, weakness in the arms or legs, and difficulty with balance or control of the limbs. Tests such as a CT scan or MRI are usually required. Most of the time these tumors require surgery for removal, or else they will continue to get larger and cause more problems. Since there are different types of intramedullary tumors that can look similar on imaging tests, removal also allows for a more precise diagnosis.

The cauda equina is the bundle of nerves that comes off of and hangs below the spinal cord. The bundle resembles a horse’s tail in appearance, and cauda equina means “horse’s tail” in Latin. Tumors can occur in this area and cause symptoms such as low back pain; pain, numbness or tingling in the legs; weakness in the legs; or problems with bowel or bladder control. Occasionally, small tumors that are not causing any problems can be followed by imaging tests, but such tumors often require surgical removal for treatment and precise diagnosis.