Chordomas grow slowly in most cases. They are commonly found in the anterior part of the spine or at the skull base. However, they can also develop in the cervical (neck), thoracic (middle back), and/or lumbar (low back) spines.
Continue reading this article to discover more about Sacral Tumors.
Who Develops Sacral Tumor?
Sacral Tumors are usually found in adults between the ages of 40 and 70. Approximately 5% are found in children. Chordomas affect men twice as often as they do women.
What Causes Sacral Tumor?
According to some evidence, if a person inherits an altered gene from a parent, it can increase their risk of having a Sacral Tumor. However, these tumors can also occur in people who have no family history of chordoma.
According to reports, children with a genetic condition known as tuberous sclerosis complex have a higher risk of developing chordomas.
What Are The Symptoms Of Sacral Tumor?
Except for local pain, many patients with sacral chordoma have few to no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. The location of the chordoma primarily determines the symptoms. Some of the most common symptoms include –
- Headaches
- Visual problems, such as double vision
- Pain
- Nosebleeds
- Back, arm, or leg nerve or muscle weakness
- Runny nose
- Bowel or bladder issues
How To Diagnose Sacral Tumor?
To identify the spinal tumor and determine its size, location, and other important characteristics, Dr. Pramod Chaurasia may order x-rays, CT scans, bone scans, or an MRI. Your doctor will also recommend a biopsy to diagnose a chordoma and differentiate it from other types of tumors. The chordoma can be classified into three types based on how the tissue is examined under a microscope:
- Conventional (or classic)
- Chondroid
- Dedifferentiated or sarcomatous
How To Treat Sacral Tumor?
Cancer's size and location typically determine treatment for Sacral Tumor and whether it has spread to nerves or other tissues. Treatment options may include –
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Radiosurgery
- Targeted therapies
When Should You See a Doctor?
As chordomas are slow-growing tumors, they may initially show some minor symptoms, or they may take years to manifest. Some people experience a lump along their spine or at the base of their skull, while others experience pain or pressure in nearby body parts affected by the chordoma's growth.
Consult Dr. Pramod Chaurasia if you start to notice any of the following symptoms:
- Chronic back pain
- Arms, legs, buttocks, and groin numbness or weakness
- Visible lump on the spine or tailbone
- Swallowing problems
- Double vision and migraines
- Difficulty walking or moving your hands
- Sudden bowel or bladder problems
Summary
Sacral Tumor symptoms vary from person to person. If you think you're experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, you should see a doctor right away. Chordomas are best managed and treated if caught early enough to avoid permanent damage or potentially life-threatening complications.
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