What is spinal tumor ependymoma? Spinal tumor Ependymoma is a rare type of tumor that originates from the ependymal cells covering the central canal of the spinal cord. These tumors may be benign or malignant, but even the non-cancerous types, by growing in the limited space of the spinal cord, put a lot of pressure on the nerves and are often associated with neurological symptoms, but slowly associated with neurological symptoms. If left untreated, they can disrupt the normal function of the spinal cord and lead to serious neurological disabilities. ....Early diagnosis and referral to a spine tumor surgeon in Tehran can play an essential role in the successful control and treatment of this disease....Symptoms and symptoms of spinal tumor ependymoma Symptoms of a spinal tumor of ependymoma depend on the location and size of the tumor and usually appear gradually.. The most common symptom is persistent pain in the back or neck that worsens over time.. Other symptoms include weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, loss of balance, and loss of muscle strength. Spinal cord tumor One of the most serious complications of ependymoma spinal tumor is pressure on the spinal cord and motor nerves, which leads to progressive muscle weakness. If the disease progresses and is not treated, this weakness can lead to partial or complete paralysis of the limbs. First, a decrease in strength is seen in the legs or arms, and over time, in case of performing daily activities or problems in the neck area, the person has difficulty walking or performing daily activities. Higher, there is also a risk of quadriplegia and paralysis. Leg.... Early rehabilitation and treatment is vital to prevent this complication.... You can see other complications of this disease in the list below.... Numbness, tingling and loss of sensation in the limbs.... - **Walking and balance disorders**: Tumor with damage to the spinal cord causes imbalance and instability in movement and standing.. **Mental and psychological disorders**: Physical symptoms and mental pressure of the disease may lead to depression, anxiety and Reduce the motivation of the tumor... The first step in the diagnosis of spinal ependymoma tumor is a physical examination and detailed neurological evaluation by a neurologist.. At this stage, the doctor looks for possible signs of spinal cord compression or nerve disorders by examining muscle strength, sense of touch, reflexes, balance and coordination. MRI (MRI) is considered the most accurate and main imaging method for diagnosing spinal ependymoma tumor.. This method provides high-quality images of the spinal cord and its surroundings without the use of radiation and using a magnetic field.. MRI is able to clearly show the location of the tumor, its size, shape and relationship with the surrounding tissues.. In cases where it is necessary to accurately diagnose the type of tumor, sampling or biopsy is performed. In this method, a small sample of the tumor tissue is taken surgically or during its complete removal and is sent to the pathology laboratory for microscopic examination. be.... ### CT scan ** Although MRI is the preferred method for examining the spinal cord, CT scan is also used as a complementary tool in some special cases. CT scan can clearly show the bony structures of the spine and is useful for checking erosion or bone destruction caused by a tumor. Also, in situations where MRI is not available or the patient is unable to do it. In this method, X-rays are used. It provides the doctor, but it is less sensitive than MRI... Treatment of spinal tumor ependymoma The main and most effective treatment method for spinal tumor ependymoma is surgery to remove the tumor completely or as much as possible. The goal of the surgeon is to reduce the pressure on the spinal cord and nerves and prevent the development of neurological symptoms.. If the tumor is located correctly and has a clear border with the surrounding tissues, complete removal of the tumor is possible. Surgery requires a specialized team of neurosurgery and special care after surgery... After surgery, depending on the biopsy result and the patient's condition, a decision is made regarding the continuation of treatment (such as radiation therapy)... ### Radiation therapy (radiotherapy) One of the methods of spinal cord tumor treatment is radiation therapy. In cases where the tumor cannot be completely removed or there is a risk of recurrence, radiation therapy is recommended as a complementary treatment after surgery. Radiation therapy uses targeted radiation to destroy the remaining tumor cells or prevent their growth. This procedure usually takes a few weeks and is performed under the supervision of an oncologist. It does not exist, it should be used as primary treatment.. This method plays an important role in the treatment of ependymoma with a high degree of malignancy and helps to increase the probability of tumor control.... ### Chemotherapy Chemotherapy in the treatment of spinal ependymoma tumor, although it has a more limited role than **spinal tumor surgery** and radiation therapy, but it is used in some special conditions, especially in children or in cases of fast-growing and resistant tumors. Chemotherapy drugs are usually administered by injection and work with the aim of destroying or inhibiting tumor cells. They may have side effects (such as nausea, hair loss, or weakness), in some cases it can be Reduce the tumor and improve the patient's condition before surgery.. ### Rehabilitation and physiotherapy after treatment After initial treatment, many patients face complications such as muscle weakness, imbalance, or movement problems. Rehabilitation includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy counseling that help return physical function, strengthen muscles, and improve quality of life. Rehabilitation programs are adjusted based on the conditions of each patient and may last weeks or months. What is the best treatment for ependymoma spinal tumor? The best treatment method for ependymoma spinal tumor depends on the location, size, degree of malignancy of the tumor and the general condition of the patient.. In most cases, surgery is the first treatment option, but sometimes radiation therapy or chemotherapy is necessary.