Management of intradural extramedullary and intramedullary spinal tumors

Abstract

Intradural spine tumors are relatively uncommon and include tumors outside (extramedullary) or within the spinal cord (intramedullary). The proximity of these tumors to important neural structures can cause significant neurologic morbidity and prompt management is critical for maintaining function. Surgical intervention is generally the primary treatment depending on presenting symptoms, radiologic features, and the likelihood of a clear surgical planes vis-à-vis the spinal cord. Adjuvant radiation, chemotherapy, or other novel therapeutic strategies may play a role in postoperative management. Here we review management strategies for common intradural extramedullary (meningiomas, schwannomas, and neurofibromas) and intradural intramedullary tumors (astrocytomas, ependymomas, and hemangioblastomas).