Home > Encyclopedia of Cancer > Spinal Axis Tumors

Definition

Spinal axis tumors are tumors that affect the spinal cord—the bundle of nerves that lies inside the backbone. Another term for spinal axis tumors is spinal cord tumors.

Description

Spinal axis tumors form on or near the spinal cord and produce pressure on the associated nerves and blood vessels. There are three types of spinal axis tumors: extradural, extramedullary intradural, and intramedullary.

Extradural spinal axis tumors

Extradural tumors are found outside the dura mater, the membrane that encases the spinal cord. Extradural tumors are wedged between the dura mater and the bone of the spine. Types of...