What is Germinoma of the Spinal Cord?
Germinoma of the spinal cord is a rare type of cancer of the brain and spinal cord that usually affects children between the ages of 10-19 years. During fetal life—the period of development when the fetus grows inside the mother’s uterus—sex cells that are unable to leave the brain proliferate abnormally and cause spinal cord germinoma.
Disease Causes
These are rare types of cancers and account for only 2.1-3.5% of all types of brain and spinal cord cancers. It forms as a result of the germ cells failing to depart from the developing fetus’s brain in the mother’s uterus.
Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain and numbness in the legs
- Difficulty in walking
- Dribbling of urine
- Difficulty in holding urine
- Inability to pass urine
- Pain in the abdomen
- Weakness of muscles
- Poor strength of muscles
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are;
- Imaging techniques like Chest X-ray, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan to see the site, size, and extent of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy (tumour biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for histopathological examination)
- USG-guided fine needle aspiration cytology
Treatment
Surgical resection (surgical removal of the damaged part of the body) of the tumour is the main treatment; other treatment options are chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
What Support can we Give for Spinal Cord Germinoma?
Spinal Cord Germinoma is rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Spinal Cord Germinoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
