Post by WhiteAngel on Feb 25, 2008 21:37:41 GMT -6
These tumors develop from cells called astrocytes that are normally found within the substance of the spinal cord.
These tumors occur at any age, but are more common during the early years of life. In children under 10 years of age, they account for 90 percent of all intramedullary tumors. In adolescents, they account for about 60 percent of all intramedullary (within the spinal cord) tumors. Most actrocytomas are located in the spinal cord near the neck and upper chest.
Symptoms vary with the location of the tumor and may develop over 2 to 3 years if the tumor is slow growing. High-grade tumors develop more rapidly, within a few weeks or months.
Surgery is the most effective treatment for astrocytomas, especially those with well-defined borders. However, astrocytomas are more difficult to remove totally than most other spinal cord tumors. Tumors that cannot be totally removed or that are suspected to be developing rapidly usually require radiation therapy after surgery.
more www.mayoclinic.org/spinal-cord-tumors/astrocytomas.html
These tumors occur at any age, but are more common during the early years of life. In children under 10 years of age, they account for 90 percent of all intramedullary tumors. In adolescents, they account for about 60 percent of all intramedullary (within the spinal cord) tumors. Most actrocytomas are located in the spinal cord near the neck and upper chest.
Symptoms vary with the location of the tumor and may develop over 2 to 3 years if the tumor is slow growing. High-grade tumors develop more rapidly, within a few weeks or months.
Surgery is the most effective treatment for astrocytomas, especially those with well-defined borders. However, astrocytomas are more difficult to remove totally than most other spinal cord tumors. Tumors that cannot be totally removed or that are suspected to be developing rapidly usually require radiation therapy after surgery.
more www.mayoclinic.org/spinal-cord-tumors/astrocytomas.html
