What is the Neurilemmoma (Spinal Cord)?
Neurilemmoma (spinal cord) is a benign tumour that arises from the Schwann cells of the nerve sheath of peripheral nerves that innervate the spinal cord. Peripheral nerves are nerves that reside outside the brain and spinal cord. These nerves carry information between the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Neurilemmoma tumours of the brain and spinal cord are also known as schwannoma.
Disease Epidemiology
Neurilemmoma tumours usually affect people between the ages of 30 and 70. It is equally common in both men and women. Neurilemmoma usually develops in the elbow, wrist, and knee, but these tumours can develop along the spinal cord, head, and neck. These tumours may also develop in the pelvic region of the body.
Disease Etiology (Causes)
In most cases of spinal cord tumours, they develop suddenly. The reason for the development of neurilemmoma is a fault in the production of the NF2 gene, which produces a protein in the schwannoma cell called merlin or schwannomin.
Signs and Symptoms
A Neurilemmoma (spinal cord) tumour arises from peripheral and cranial nerves, which have different functions in the body and connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. The symptoms of a neurilemmoma tumour will depend on the site of origin and the affected nerve. These tumours usually show no signs or symptoms. The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are
- Pain, numbness, or weakness in the body
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- The weakness of the muscles on one side of the body
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are
- Imaging tests such as X-Ray, CT-scan (computerized tomography), PET-scan (Positron emission tomography) help detect the site, size, and location of the tumour.
- Tumour biopsy and histopathological examination
Treatment
The major treatment option in the early stages is the surgical removal of the tumour, but it’s also crucial to keep the nerve that supplies the affected area functioning throughout this process. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are the main treatment options for advanced cases of tumours. In some asymptomatic cases, the patient is only under regular follow-up with brain and spinal cord scans and may not need treatment.
What Support can we Give for Neurilemmoma (Spinal Cord)?
Neurilemmoma (Spinal Cord) 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 Neurilemmoma (Spinal Cord), 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!
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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:
