040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Cervical Ependymoma: Symptoms and Care
Cervical Ependymoma is a type of tumor that develops in the spinal cord's cervical region. This rare tumor can impact a person's health by potentially causing complications due to its location near vital structures within the spine. The presence of a cervical ependymoma may affect nerve function and mobility, leading to various health challenges. Understanding the impact of this tumor on the body is crucial for appropriate management and care.
What are the Symptoms of Cervical Ependymoma
Cervical ependymoma symptoms typically involve manifestations related to the spinal cord location of the tumor.
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Difficulty walking
- Changes in vision
- Seizures
- Loss of coordination
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionCauses of Cervical Ependymoma
Cervical ependymoma is primarily caused by the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the spinal cord in the neck region.
- Genetic mutations
- Exposure to radiation
- Unknown factors
Types of Cervical Ependymoma
Cervical ependymomas can present as different types or forms, each with distinct characteristics and locations within the spinal cord.
- Myxopapillary Ependymoma: This type of cervical ependymoma is slow growing and typically found in the lower part of the spinal cord.
- Cellular Ependymoma: Characterized by a higher cell density, cellular ependymomas may show more aggressive behavior compared to other types.
- Papillary Ependymoma: Papillary ependymomas have fingerlike projections and are considered a less common subtype of cervical ependymoma.
- Clear Cell Ependymoma: This subtype of ependymoma is characterized by clear cytoplasm in the tumor cells and is associated with specific genetic mutations.
- Anaplastic Ependymoma: Anaplastic ependymomas are more aggressive tumors with high cellularity and increased mitotic activity, often requiring more intensive treatment approaches.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for cervical ependymoma, a rare type of tumor in the spinal cord, are not yet fully understood but may include genetic predisposition or exposure to certain environmental factors.
- Genetic factors
- Exposure to ionizing radiation
- Age (more common in adults)
- Gender (slightly more common in females)
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Diagnosis of Cervical Ependymoma
Cervical ependymoma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests and a detailed medical history review.
Treatment for Cervical Ependymoma
Cervical ependymoma is typically managed through a combination of treatment approaches tailored to the individual patient.
- Surgery: Surgery is the main treatment for cervical ependymoma, aiming to remove the tumor while preserving neurological function.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used postsurgery to target any remaining tumor cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is not typically the first line treatment for cervical ependymoma but may be considered in certain cases, especially for recurrent or inoperable tumors.
- Stereotactic radiosurgery: Stereotactic radiosurgery delivers precise radiation to the tumor while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues, often used for small residual tumors or as a primary treatment for inoperable cases.
- Watchful waiting: In some cases, especially for slow growing tumors in older patients or those with comorbidities, a watchful waiting approach may be taken with regular monitoring to assess tumor growth and determine if intervention is needed.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is cervical ependymoma?
Cervical ependymoma is a rare type of tumor that originates in the cells lining the spinal cord in the neck region.
What are the symptoms of cervical ependymoma?
Symptoms may include neck pain, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, and loss of bladder or bowel control.
How is cervical ependymoma diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence of ependymoma cells.
What are the treatment options for cervical ependymoma?
Treatment may involve surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy depending on the size and location of the tumor.
What is the prognosis for patients with cervical ependymoma?
The prognosis can vary depending on factors such as the size and location of the tumor, but with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, many patients have a good prognosis and can achieve long-term survival.
Feeling unwell?
Request a callback!
