Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center utilizes the most advanced diagnostic tools available to diagnose spinal tumors. Our diagnostic tools include:
- X-ray: A painless procedure where X-ray beams are used to create detailed imaging of bones and hard structures of the spinal column.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A magnetic field and radio waves are used to create a detailed image of bone and soft tissue of the spine.
- CT scan (CAT scan): This special X-ray takes detailed images of the spine. CT images are far more detailed than a standard X-ray.
- PET scan: An imaging test that uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to assess glucose metabolism or other body functions active in a tumor that helps identify sites of cancer throughout the body.
- Bone scan: An imaging procedure that identifies bone abnormalities such as fractures or tumors throughout the entire skeleton.
- Biopsy: A procedure where a sample of tissue is taken and examined more closely. A biopsy is required to accurately diagnose your particular tumor. At Penn, these are performed as image-guided biopsies by experienced interventional or musculoskeletal radiologists and the small pieces of tissue removed are evaluated by experienced musculoskeletal pathologists.
- Lumbar puncture: Also called a spinal tap, this is a procedure to collect and examine the fluid surrounding the spinal cord. The fluid is examined for color, blood count, protein, glucose and other substances.
- Blood tests: Generally used to confirm a suspected diagnosis, especially with tumors that have markers that can be detected in the blood such as prostate cancer or myeloma. Blood tests are helpful after a review of medical history and physical examination are performed and a suspected diagnosis is made.
Neuropsychology Assessment
Neuropsychology is an important component of the Penn Spinal Tumor Program. Neuropsychologists work within the field of psychology and focus on spinal cord-behavior relationships.
Pre- and post-surgical neuropsychological assessments provide information regarding the individual's cognitive strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive process evaluates the patient's:
- Memory
- Language
- Visual-spatial perception
- Executive functioning
- Emotions/personality
- Extensive language testing helps to guide awake spinal cord mapping as an integral part of the pre-surgical process.
Neuropsychological evaluations also address patient and family education; and recommendations for rehabilitation, disability concerns, and work/school accommodations.