Spinal Cord Tumors

Spinal tumors can be broadly classified on the basis of the anatomical compartment they occupy. These tumors can be intramedullary, intradural extramedullary, or extradural. Regardless of location, significant neurologic morbidity can occur as a result of their effects on the spinal cord or the cauda equina, or both. This chapter summarizes the pathophysiologic factors, clinical characteristics, imaging characteristics, and treatment of each tumor type.