Diagnostic Services

Spinal tumor symptoms depend on the location, type of tumor, and your general health. Tumors that have spread to the spine from another site (metastatic tumors) often progress quickly. Primary tumors often progress slowly over weeks to years.

Symptoms may include abnormal sensation, back pain, muscle spasms,. muscle function loss and muscle weakness. A physical exam may reveal abnormal reflexes, loss of pain and temperature sensation, tenderness in the spine

Your doctor may order one or more of the following tests:

Spine X-ray: Spinal X-rays are pictures of the spine to find injuries or diseases that affect the discs or joints in the spine.

CSF Cell Count: A CSF cell count is a test to measure the number of red and white blood cells that are in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord and brain.

Myelogram: A myelogram uses a special dye (contrast material) and X-rays (fluoroscopy) to make pictures of the bones and the fluid-filled space (subarachnoid space) between the bones in your spine (spinal canal).

Spinal Computed Tomography (CT) scan: CT imaging combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed. CT imaging is one of the best and fastest tools for studying the chest, abdomen and pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.

Lumbrosacral Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) : MRI is a noninvasive way for your doctor to examine the lower part of the spine (the lumbar region) and the sacrum, the area that connects the spine to the pelvis. It produces high-resolution images that help diagnose a variety of problems and may be used to detect tumors or abnormalities in your ovaries.

For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).