meningioma (spinal)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Spinal cord meningiomas tend to occur in elderly patients and are more common in females than males. They often arise in the thoracic region, usually dorsally. Most are extramedullary.
Presentation is as a slowly advancing spastic paraparesis often with few sensory signs.
The tumour is usually readily demonstrated by myelography or MRI.
Treatment is aimed at removing the tumour except if it arises anteriorly to the cord. Complete removal has a good prognosis.