Benign and malignant neoplasms which occur within the substance of the spinal cord (intramedullary neoplasms) or in the space between the dura and spinal cord (intradural extramedullary neoplasms). The majority of intramedullary spinal tumors are primary CNS neoplasms including ASTROCYTOMA; EPENDYMOMA; and LIPOMA. Intramedullary neoplasms are often associated with SYRINGOMYELIA. The most frequent histologic types of intradural-extramedullary tumors are MENINGIOMA and NEUROFIBROMA.
A cylindrical column of tissue that lies within the vertebral canal. It is composed of WHITE MATTER and GRAY MATTER.
Penetrating and non-penetrating injuries to the spinal cord resulting from traumatic external forces (e.g., WOUNDS, GUNSHOT; WHIPLASH INJURIES; etc.).
Pathologic conditions which feature SPINAL CORD damage or dysfunction, including disorders involving the meninges and perimeningeal spaces surrounding the spinal cord. Traumatic injuries, vascular diseases, infections, and inflammatory/autoimmune processes may affect the spinal cord.
Acute and chronic conditions characterized by external mechanical compression of the SPINAL CORD due to extramedullary neoplasm; EPIDURAL ABSCESS; SPINAL FRACTURES; bony deformities of the vertebral bodies; and other conditions. Clinical manifestations vary with the anatomic site of the lesion and may include localized pain, weakness, sensory loss, incontinence, and impotence.
Reduced blood flow to the spinal cord which is supplied by the anterior spinal artery and the paired posterior spinal arteries. This condition may be associated with ARTERIOSCLEROSIS, trauma, emboli, diseases of the aorta, and other disorders. Prolonged ischemia may lead to INFARCTION of spinal cord tissue.
Introduction of therapeutic agents into the spinal region using a needle and syringe.
Severe or complete loss of motor function in the lower extremities and lower portions of the trunk. This condition is most often associated with SPINAL CORD DISEASES, although BRAIN DISEASES; PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DISEASES; NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASES; and MUSCULAR DISEASES may also cause bilateral leg weakness.
Paired bundles of NERVE FIBERS entering and leaving the SPINAL CORD at each segment. The dorsal and ventral nerve roots join to form the mixed segmental spinal nerves. The dorsal roots are generally afferent, formed by the central projections of the spinal (dorsal root) ganglia sensory cells, and the ventral roots are efferent, comprising the axons of spinal motor and PREGANGLIONIC AUTONOMIC FIBERS.
The 31 paired peripheral nerves formed by the union of the dorsal and ventral spinal roots from each spinal cord segment. The spinal nerve plexuses and the spinal roots are also included.
Neurons which activate MUSCLE CELLS.
Repair of the damaged neuron function after SPINAL CORD INJURY or SPINAL CORD DISEASES.
Spinal neoplasms are abnormal growths or tumors that develop within the spinal column, which can be benign or malignant, and originate from cells within the spinal structure or spread to the spine from other parts of the body (metastatic).
The cavity within the SPINAL COLUMN through which the SPINAL CORD passes.
The first seven VERTEBRAE of the SPINAL COLUMN, which correspond to the VERTEBRAE of the NECK.
Procedure in which an anesthetic is injected directly into the spinal cord.
Severe or complete loss of motor function in all four limbs which may result from BRAIN DISEASES; SPINAL CORD DISEASES; PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DISEASES; NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASES; or rarely MUSCULAR DISEASES. The locked-in syndrome is characterized by quadriplegia in combination with cranial muscle paralysis. Consciousness is spared and the only retained voluntary motor activity may be limited eye movements. This condition is usually caused by a lesion in the upper BRAIN STEM which injures the descending cortico-spinal and cortico-bulbar tracts.
A group of twelve VERTEBRAE connected to the ribs that support the upper trunk region.
'Spinal diseases' is a broad term referring to various medical conditions that affect the structural integrity, function, or health of the spinal column, including degenerative disorders, infections, inflammatory processes, traumatic injuries, neoplasms, and congenital abnormalities.
The flexible rope-like structure that connects a developing FETUS to the PLACENTA in mammals. The cord contains blood vessels which carry oxygen and nutrients from the mother to the fetus and waste products away from the fetus.
Neurons in the SPINAL CORD DORSAL HORN whose cell bodies and processes are confined entirely to the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM. They receive collateral or direct terminations of dorsal root fibers. They send their axons either directly to ANTERIOR HORN CELLS or to the WHITE MATTER ascending and descending longitudinal fibers.
A surgical procedure that entails removing all (laminectomy) or part (laminotomy) of selected vertebral lamina to relieve pressure on the SPINAL CORD and/or SPINAL NERVE ROOTS. Vertebral lamina is the thin flattened posterior wall of vertebral arch that forms the vertebral foramen through which pass the spinal cord and nerve roots.
A strain of albino rat used widely for experimental purposes because of its calmness and ease of handling. It was developed by the Sprague-Dawley Animal Company.
Region of the back including the LUMBAR VERTEBRAE, SACRUM, and nearby structures.
A partial or complete return to the normal or proper physiologic activity of an organ or part following disease or trauma.
Renewal or physiological repair of damaged nerve tissue.
Nerve fibers that are capable of rapidly conducting impulses away from the neuron cell body.
Narrowing of the spinal canal.
Tumors or cancer of the PANCREAS. Depending on the types of ISLET CELLS present in the tumors, various hormones can be secreted: GLUCAGON from PANCREATIC ALPHA CELLS; INSULIN from PANCREATIC BETA CELLS; and SOMATOSTATIN from the SOMATOSTATIN-SECRETING CELLS. Most are malignant except the insulin-producing tumors (INSULINOMA).
Sensory ganglia located on the dorsal spinal roots within the vertebral column. The spinal ganglion cells are pseudounipolar. The single primary branch bifurcates sending a peripheral process to carry sensory information from the periphery and a central branch which relays that information to the spinal cord or brain.
Application of electric current to the spine for treatment of a variety of conditions involving innervation from the spinal cord.
Movement or the ability to move from one place or another. It can refer to humans, vertebrate or invertebrate animals, and microorganisms.
Operative immobilization or ankylosis of two or more vertebrae by fusion of the vertebral bodies with a short bone graft or often with diskectomy or laminectomy. (From Blauvelt & Nelson, A Manual of Orthopaedic Terminology, 5th ed, p236; Dorland, 28th ed)
Injuries involving the vertebral column.
MOTOR NEURONS in the anterior (ventral) horn of the SPINAL CORD which project to SKELETAL MUSCLES.
Inflammation of the spinal cord. Relatively common etiologies include infections; AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES; SPINAL CORD; and ischemia (see also SPINAL CORD VASCULAR DISEASES). Clinical features generally include weakness, sensory loss, localized pain, incontinence, and other signs of autonomic dysfunction.
New abnormal growth of tissue. Malignant neoplasms show a greater degree of anaplasia and have the properties of invasion and metastasis, compared to benign neoplasms.
Any operation on the spinal cord. (Stedman, 26th ed)
Histochemical localization of immunoreactive substances using labeled antibodies as reagents.
A general term most often used to describe severe or complete loss of muscle strength due to motor system disease from the level of the cerebral cortex to the muscle fiber. This term may also occasionally refer to a loss of sensory function. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p45)
An unpleasant sensation induced by noxious stimuli which are detected by NERVE ENDINGS of NOCICEPTIVE NEURONS.
A group of disorders marked by progressive degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord resulting in weakness and muscular atrophy, usually without evidence of injury to the corticospinal tracts. Diseases in this category include Werdnig-Hoffmann disease and later onset SPINAL MUSCULAR ATROPHIES OF CHILDHOOD, most of which are hereditary. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p1089)
Naturally occurring or experimentally induced animal diseases with pathological processes sufficiently similar to those of human diseases. They are used as study models for human diseases.
The basic cellular units of nervous tissue. Each neuron consists of a body, an axon, and dendrites. Their purpose is to receive, conduct, and transmit impulses in the NERVOUS SYSTEM.
Neoplasms containing cyst-like formations or producing mucin or serum.
An increased sensation of pain or discomfort produced by mimimally noxious stimuli due to damage to soft tissue containing NOCICEPTORS or injury to a peripheral nerve.
Application of electric current in treatment without the generation of perceptible heat. It includes electric stimulation of nerves or muscles, passage of current into the body, or use of interrupted current of low intensity to raise the threshold of the skin to pain.
Intense or aching pain that occurs along the course or distribution of a peripheral or cranial nerve.
X-ray visualization of the spinal cord following injection of contrast medium into the spinal arachnoid space.
Elements of limited time intervals, contributing to particular results or situations.
Non-invasive method of demonstrating internal anatomy based on the principle that atomic nuclei in a strong magnetic field absorb pulses of radiofrequency energy and emit them as radiowaves which can be reconstructed into computerized images. The concept includes proton spin tomographic techniques.
Use of electric potential or currents to elicit biological responses.
The spinal or vertebral column.
Space between the dura mater and the walls of the vertebral canal.
Nerve structures through which impulses are conducted from a peripheral part toward a nerve center.
Dysfunction of the URINARY BLADDER due to disease of the central or peripheral nervous system pathways involved in the control of URINATION. This is often associated with SPINAL CORD DISEASES, but may also be caused by BRAIN DISEASES or PERIPHERAL NERVE DISEASES.
A rare epidural hematoma in the spinal epidural space, usually due to a vascular malformation (CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM VASCULAR MALFORMATIONS) or TRAUMA. Spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma is a neurologic emergency due to a rapidly evolving compressive MYELOPATHY.
Either of two extremities of four-footed non-primate land animals. It usually consists of a FEMUR; TIBIA; and FIBULA; tarsals; METATARSALS; and TOES. (From Storer et al., General Zoology, 6th ed, p73)
Neurons which conduct NERVE IMPULSES to the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM.
Peripheral AFFERENT NEURONS which are sensitive to injuries or pain, usually caused by extreme thermal exposures, mechanical forces, or other noxious stimuli. Their cell bodies reside in the DORSAL ROOT GANGLIA. Their peripheral terminals (NERVE ENDINGS) innervate target tissues and transduce noxious stimuli via axons to the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM.
VERTEBRAE in the region of the lower BACK below the THORACIC VERTEBRAE and above the SACRAL VERTEBRAE.
An involuntary movement or exercise of function in a part, excited in response to a stimulus applied to the periphery and transmitted to the brain or spinal cord.
Two or more abnormal growths of tissue occurring simultaneously and presumed to be of separate origin. The neoplasms may be histologically the same or different, and may be found in the same or different sites.
Common name for the only family (Petromyzontidae) of eellike fish in the order Petromyzontiformes. They are jawless but have a sucking mouth with horny teeth.
Tumors or cancer of the SKIN.
The domestic cat, Felis catus, of the carnivore family FELIDAE, comprising over 30 different breeds. The domestic cat is descended primarily from the wild cat of Africa and extreme southwestern Asia. Though probably present in towns in Palestine as long ago as 7000 years, actual domestication occurred in Egypt about 4000 years ago. (From Walker's Mammals of the World, 6th ed, p801)
The physical activity of a human or an animal as a behavioral phenomenon.
A syndrome associated with damage to the spinal cord above the mid thoracic level (see SPINAL CORD INJURIES) characterized by a marked increase in the sympathetic response to minor stimuli such as bladder or rectal distention. Manifestations include HYPERTENSION; TACHYCARDIA (or reflex bradycardia); FEVER; FLUSHING; and HYPERHIDROSIS. Extreme hypertension may be associated with a STROKE. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp538 and 1232; J Spinal Cord Med 1997;20(3):355-60)
Most generally any NEURONS which are not motor or sensory. Interneurons may also refer to neurons whose AXONS remain within a particular brain region in contrast to projection neurons, which have axons projecting to other brain regions.
Fibers that arise from cells within the cerebral cortex, pass through the medullary pyramid, and descend in the spinal cord. Many authorities say the pyramidal tracts include both the corticospinal and corticobulbar tracts.
Recording of the changes in electric potential of muscle by means of surface or needle electrodes.
Scales, questionnaires, tests, and other methods used to assess pain severity and duration in patients or experimental animals to aid in diagnosis, therapy, and physiological studies.
Osteitis or caries of the vertebrae, usually occurring as a complication of tuberculosis of the lungs.
The lipid-rich sheath surrounding AXONS in both the CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEMS and PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM. The myelin sheath is an electrical insulator and allows faster and more energetically efficient conduction of impulses. The sheath is formed by the cell membranes of glial cells (SCHWANN CELLS in the peripheral and OLIGODENDROGLIA in the central nervous system). Deterioration of the sheath in DEMYELINATING DISEASES is a serious clinical problem.
The main information-processing organs of the nervous system, consisting of the brain, spinal cord, and meninges.
Blood of the fetus. Exchange of nutrients and waste between the fetal and maternal blood occurs via the PLACENTA. The cord blood is blood contained in the umbilical vessels (UMBILICAL CORD) at the time of delivery.
Act of eliciting a response from a person or organism through physical contact.
The non-neuronal cells of the nervous system. They not only provide physical support, but also respond to injury, regulate the ionic and chemical composition of the extracellular milieu, participate in the BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER and BLOOD-RETINAL BARRIER, form the myelin insulation of nervous pathways, guide neuronal migration during development, and exchange metabolites with neurons. Neuroglia have high-affinity transmitter uptake systems, voltage-dependent and transmitter-gated ion channels, and can release transmitters, but their role in signaling (as in many other functions) is unclear.
Injuries resulting in hemorrhage, usually manifested in the skin.
The electric response evoked in the CEREBRAL CORTEX by stimulation along AFFERENT PATHWAYS from PERIPHERAL NERVES to CEREBRUM.
Tumors or cancers of the KIDNEY.
The part of the brain that connects the CEREBRAL HEMISPHERES with the SPINAL CORD. It consists of the MESENCEPHALON; PONS; and MEDULLA OBLONGATA.
Deformities of the SPINE characterized by abnormal bending or flexure in the vertebral column. They may be bending forward (KYPHOSIS), backward (LORDOSIS), or sideway (SCOLIOSIS).
A class of large neuroglial (macroglial) cells in the central nervous system. Oligodendroglia may be called interfascicular, perivascular, or perineuronal (not the same as SATELLITE CELLS, PERINEURONAL of GANGLIA) according to their location. They form the insulating MYELIN SHEATH of axons in the central nervous system.
Either of a pair of tubular structures formed by DUCTUS DEFERENS; ARTERIES; VEINS; LYMPHATIC VESSELS; and nerves. The spermatic cord extends from the deep inguinal ring through the INGUINAL CANAL to the TESTIS in the SCROTUM.
A nerve which originates in the lumbar and sacral spinal cord (L4 to S3) and supplies motor and sensory innervation to the lower extremity. The sciatic nerve, which is the main continuation of the sacral plexus, is the largest nerve in the body. It has two major branches, the TIBIAL NERVE and the PERONEAL NERVE.
Longitudinal cavities in the spinal cord, most often in the cervical region, which may extend for multiple spinal levels. The cavities are lined by dense, gliogenous tissue and may be associated with SPINAL CORD NEOPLASMS; spinal cord traumatic injuries; and vascular malformations. Syringomyelia is marked clinically by pain and PARESTHESIA, muscular atrophy of the hands, and analgesia with thermoanesthesia of the hands and arms, but with the tactile sense preserved (sensory dissociation). Lower extremity spasticity and incontinence may also develop. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p1269)
Abnormal growths of tissue that follow a previous neoplasm but are not metastases of the latter. The second neoplasm may have the same or different histological type and can occur in the same or different organs as the previous neoplasm but in all cases arises from an independent oncogenic event. The development of the second neoplasm may or may not be related to the treatment for the previous neoplasm since genetic risk or predisposing factors may actually be the cause.
A form of muscle hypertonia associated with upper MOTOR NEURON DISEASE. Resistance to passive stretch of a spastic muscle results in minimal initial resistance (a "free interval") followed by an incremental increase in muscle tone. Tone increases in proportion to the velocity of stretch. Spasticity is usually accompanied by HYPERREFLEXIA and variable degrees of MUSCLE WEAKNESS. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p54)
Nerve structures through which impulses are conducted from a nerve center toward a peripheral site. Such impulses are conducted via efferent neurons (NEURONS, EFFERENT), such as MOTOR NEURONS, autonomic neurons, and hypophyseal neurons.
An alkaloid found in the seeds of STRYCHNOS NUX-VOMICA. It is a competitive antagonist at glycine receptors and thus a convulsant. It has been used as an analeptic, in the treatment of nonketotic hyperglycinemia and sleep apnea, and as a rat poison.
The lower part of the SPINAL CORD consisting of the lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal nerve roots.
A group of recessively inherited diseases that feature progressive muscular atrophy and hypotonia. They are classified as type I (Werdnig-Hoffman disease), type II (intermediate form), and type III (Kugelberg-Welander disease). Type I is fatal in infancy, type II has a late infantile onset and is associated with survival into the second or third decade. Type III has its onset in childhood, and is slowly progressive. (J Med Genet 1996 Apr:33(4):281-3)
Refers to animals in the period of time just after birth.
A surgical operation for the relief of pressure in a body compartment or on a body part. (From Dorland, 28th ed)
Evaluation undertaken to assess the results or consequences of management and procedures used in combating disease in order to determine the efficacy, effectiveness, safety, and practicability of these interventions in individual cases or series.
An intermediate filament protein found only in glial cells or cells of glial origin. MW 51,000.
Mild to moderate loss of bilateral lower extremity motor function, which may be a manifestation of SPINAL CORD DISEASES; PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM DISEASES; MUSCULAR DISEASES; INTRACRANIAL HYPERTENSION; parasagittal brain lesions; and other conditions.
Broken bones in the vertebral column.
Chairs mounted on wheels and designed to be propelled by the occupant.

Extraneural metastasizing ependymoma of the spinal cord. (1/586)

This paper reports a case of the rare entity of an extraneural metastasizing ependymoma of the spinal cord. The tumor which arose in the conus medullaris and in the cauda equina was first diagnosed in 1956 when a thoracolumbar myeloresection was performed. At autopsy, 40 years after the primary diagnosis, a massive local tumor recurrence with extraneural metastases in the lungs, the pleura, the liver, and the thoracal and abdominal lymph nodes were found. Immunohistochemical stains of the extraneural metastases showed a strong cytoplasmatic expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Neither the primary tumor nor its metastases showed any of the conventional morphological criteria of malignancy. Reviewing the literature we discuss the possible mechanism of extraneural tumor spread and the incidence of metastases with regard to the tumor type.  (+info)

Recurrent spinal epidural metastases: a prospective study with a complete follow up. (2/586)

OBJECTIVES: Prospective studies with a complete follow up in patients with spinal epidural metastases (SEM) are rare, so little is known of the incidence and relevance of recurrent spinal epidural metastases (RSEM). This prospective study was undertaken as a part of a previously started and extended prospective study to determine the occurrence and details of RSEM. METHODS: Patients with SEM of various primary malignancies were followed up until death. The diagnosis was confirmed after neurological examination by imaging studies visualising not only the clinically suspected level, but also as much of the spinal canal as possible. RESULTS: Recurrent spinal epidural metastases (RSEM) occurred in 21 of the 103 patients (20%) after a median interval of 7 months and, after treatment, a second recurrence occurred in 11 patients (11%), a third recurrence in two patients (2%), and a sixth recurrence in one patient (1%). RSEM developed about as often at the initial level (55%) as at a different level (45%), did not occur more often in patients with initially multiple SEM, but, not surprisingly, occurred much more often in patients with longer survival. About one half of the patients surviving 2 years, and nearly all patients surviving 3 years or longer developed RSEM. Ambulatory state could be preserved in most patients, even after their second recurrence. CONCLUSION: RSEM are common and even several episodes of RSEM in the same patient are not rare. Patients with SEM who survive long enough have a high risk of RSEM and prompt treatment of RSEM to maintain the ambulatory state of the patient is valuable.  (+info)

Phase I trial of methotrexate-albumin in a weekly intravenous bolus regimen in cancer patients. Phase I Study Group of the Association for Medical Oncology of the German Cancer Society. (3/586)

Methotrexate-albumin conjugate (MTX-HSA) is a novel human albumin-based prodrug conjugate of methotrexate (MTX). A low MTX loading rate provided optimal tumor targeting and therapeutic efficacy during preclinical testing. The objectives of this first Phase I study of MTX-HSA were to determine dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and maximum tolerated dose (MTD) in a weekly regimen. Seventeen cancer patients who were no longer amenable to standard treatment were enrolled and were evaluable for DLT. Up to eight injections were performed in weekly intervals. Dose escalation was as follows: 20, 40, 50, and then 60 mg/m2 MTX-HSA (based on the amount of MTX bound to albumin). Additional MTX-HSA courses were feasible in case of tumor response. DLT (mainly stomatitis, Common Toxicity Criteria grade 3) occurred, beginning at the 50 mg/m2 dose level after repeated administrations; in one case, thrombocytopenia was dose-limiting. Two events of DLT occurred at the 60 mg/m2 dose level within the first two administrations. Mild anemia, transaminitis, and one case of skin toxicity were found. No significant leukopenia, nausea, renal toxicity, or other toxicities were observed. MTX-HSA was well tolerated. Drug accumulation occurred on the weekly schedule. The half-life of the drug was estimated to be up to 3 weeks. Tumor responses were seen in three patients: (a) a partial response was seen in one patient with renal cell carcinoma (response duration, 30 months, ongoing); (b) a minor response was seen in one patient with pleural mesothelioma (response duration, 31 months, ongoing); and (c) a minor response was seen in one patient with renal cell carcinoma (response duration, 14 months until progression). Poststudy treatment was administered at 2-4-week intervals. No signs of toxicity or drug accumulation were seen. Altered pharmacological properties of MTX-HSA such as plasma half-life, tumor targeting, or intracellular metabolism might have contributed to these responses. The MTD for weekly administration was 4 x 50 mg/m2 MTX-HSA during short-term treatment. A regimen with MTX-HSA injections of 50 mg/m2 every 2 weeks was recommended for a further clinical Phase I study.  (+info)

Diffusion tensor MR imaging and comparative histology of glioma engrafted in the rat spinal cord. (4/586)

MR imaging using contrast material derived from the diffusion of tissue water was tested for its ability to provide a nondestructive histologic analysis of tumor morphology. An apparent diffusion tensor MR image of a glioma engrafted within a rat spinal cord was generated in which fiber orientation in three dimensions was displayed in color. This imaging method clearly separated tumor from host white and gray matter and corresponded well with conventional histologic microscopy.  (+info)

Second lung adenocarcinoma after combination chemotherapy in two patients with primary non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. (5/586)

We report a rare complication of a secondary malignant solid tumor in two patients with non-Hodgkin's malignant lymphoma who developed lung adenocarcinoma after treatments with combination chemotherapies. The first was a case of primary malignant lymphoma of the cervical spinal cord which had been previously treated with radiation to the spinal lesion and combination chemotherapies and entered complete remission. The patient was further treated for relapse with autologous bone marrow transplantation preconditioned with high-dose chemotherapy. Lung adenocarcinoma developed 5.5 years after the initial diagnosis. The second case of malignant lymphoma of lymph nodes did not respond to conventional combination chemotherapies and did not enter remission. Lung adenocarcinoma developed 1 year after the initial diagnosis. The two patients died of lung carcinoma. The clinical profiles of these cases are presented and the causal relationship of primary malignant neoplasms to the second malignant neoplasms is discussed.  (+info)

Molecular genetic analysis of ependymal tumors. NF2 mutations and chromosome 22q loss occur preferentially in intramedullary spinal ependymomas. (6/586)

Ependymal tumors are heterogeneous with regard to morphology, localization, age at first clinical manifestation, and prognosis. Several molecular alterations have been reported in these tumors, including allelic losses on chromosomes 10, 17, and 22 and mutations in the NF2 gene. However, in contrast to astrocytic gliomas, no consistent molecular alterations have been associated with distinct types of ependymal tumors. To evaluate whether morphological subsets of ependymomas are characterized by specific genetic lesions, we analyzed a series of 62 ependymal tumors, including myxopapillary ependymomas, subependymomas, ependymomas, and anaplastic ependymomas, for allelic losses on chromosome arms 10q and 22q and mutations in the PTEN and NF2 genes. Allelic losses on 10q and 22q were detected in 5 of 56 and 12 of 54 tumors, respectively. Six ependymomas carried somatic NF2 mutations, whereas no mutations were detected in the PTEN gene. All six of the NF2 mutations occurred in ependymomas of WHO grade II and were exclusively observed in tumors with a spinal localization (P = 0.0063). These findings suggest that a considerable fraction of spinal ependymomas are associated with molecular events involving chromosome 22 and that mutations in the NF2 gene may be of primary importance for their genesis. Furthermore, our data suggest that the more favorable clinical course of spinal ependymomas may relate to a distinct pattern of genetic alterations different from that of intracerebral ependymomas.  (+info)

Association of lower cranial nerve schwannoma with spinal ependymoma in ? NF2. (7/586)

A 15 year old male, who had earlier been operated for intraspinal intramedullary ependymoma, subsequently developed a right cerebello pontine (CP) angle mass. A diagnosis of right CP angle ependymoma was considered, in view of established histology of previously operated spinal lesion. Histopathological examination of the well defined extra-axial mass, which was attached with ninth cranial nerve, however revealed a schwannoma. A diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis-2 (NF2) is strongly suspected, because of well established fact, that the spinal ependymomas may have association with lower cranial nerve schwannomas in NF2. Cranial and spinal MRI screening for early diagnosis of associated, asymptomatic lesions, in suspected cases of NF2, particularly in children, is recommended.  (+info)

Management of intramedullary spinal cord tumours: review of 68 patients. (8/586)

68 consecutive patients admitted with intramedullary spinal cord tumours and operated at Vellore during a six year period from January 1990 are discussed. 41 tumours were radically resected, 11 partially excised while 14 had only a biopsy. Radiation therapy was advised post operatively to those patients for whom a partial excision or biopsy was done. There was no postoperative mortality. Two patients developed wound infection and one developed postoperative hydrocephalus. Postoperative clinical assessment between four to eight weeks after surgery showed that 25 out of 68 patients improved, 29 remained unchanged, while 14 had worsening of deficits. Immediate post operative assessment, however, was less encouraging. Evaluation of these patients was done using a functional scoring system and Karnofsky rating. The follow up period ranged from 2 weeks to 64 months after discharge from hospital with a mean of 14.6 months. The indicators of radical excision were good tumour-cord interface, cranially located tumours, presence of syringomyelia and histology of ependymoma. Two patients had recurrence of tumour.  (+info)

Spinal cord neoplasms refer to abnormal growths or tumors within the spinal cord. These can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They originate from the cells within the spinal cord itself (primary tumors), or they may spread to the spinal cord from other parts of the body (metastatic tumors). Spinal cord neoplasms can cause various symptoms depending on their location and size, including back pain, neurological deficits, and even paralysis. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

The spinal cord is a major part of the nervous system, extending from the brainstem and continuing down to the lower back. It is a slender, tubular bundle of nerve fibers (axons) and support cells (glial cells) that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord primarily serves as a conduit for motor information, which travels from the brain to the muscles, and sensory information, which travels from the body to the brain. It also contains neurons that can independently process and respond to information within the spinal cord without direct input from the brain.

The spinal cord is protected by the bony vertebral column (spine) and is divided into 31 segments: 8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal. Each segment corresponds to a specific region of the body and gives rise to pairs of spinal nerves that exit through the intervertebral foramina at each level.

The spinal cord is responsible for several vital functions, including:

1. Reflexes: Simple reflex actions, such as the withdrawal reflex when touching a hot surface, are mediated by the spinal cord without involving the brain.
2. Muscle control: The spinal cord carries motor signals from the brain to the muscles, enabling voluntary movement and muscle tone regulation.
3. Sensory perception: The spinal cord transmits sensory information, such as touch, temperature, pain, and vibration, from the body to the brain for processing and awareness.
4. Autonomic functions: The sympathetic and parasympathetic divisions of the autonomic nervous system originate in the thoracolumbar and sacral regions of the spinal cord, respectively, controlling involuntary physiological responses like heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and respiration.

Damage to the spinal cord can result in various degrees of paralysis or loss of sensation below the level of injury, depending on the severity and location of the damage.

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) refer to damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function, such as mobility or feeling. This injury can be caused by direct trauma to the spine or by indirect damage resulting from disease or degeneration of surrounding bones, tissues, or blood vessels. The location and severity of the injury on the spinal cord will determine which parts of the body are affected and to what extent.

The effects of SCI can range from mild sensory changes to severe paralysis, including loss of motor function, autonomic dysfunction, and possible changes in sensation, strength, and reflexes below the level of injury. These injuries are typically classified as complete or incomplete, depending on whether there is any remaining function below the level of injury.

Immediate medical attention is crucial for spinal cord injuries to prevent further damage and improve the chances of recovery. Treatment usually involves immobilization of the spine, medications to reduce swelling and pressure, surgery to stabilize the spine, and rehabilitation to help regain lost function. Despite advances in treatment, SCI can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

Spinal cord diseases refer to a group of conditions that affect the spinal cord, which is a part of the central nervous system responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. These diseases can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to various symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, pain, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and difficulty with movement and coordination.

Spinal cord diseases can be congenital or acquired, and they can result from a variety of causes, including infections, injuries, tumors, degenerative conditions, autoimmune disorders, and genetic factors. Some examples of spinal cord diseases include multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and motor neuron diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

The treatment for spinal cord diseases varies depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, surgery, and rehabilitation. In some cases, the damage to the spinal cord may be irreversible, leading to permanent disability or paralysis.

Spinal cord compression is a medical condition that refers to the narrowing of the spinal canal, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and the nerves that branch out from it. This can occur due to various reasons such as degenerative changes in the spine, herniated discs, bone spurs, tumors, or fractures. The compression can lead to a range of symptoms including pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of bladder and bowel control. In severe cases, it can cause paralysis. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause and may include physical therapy, medication, surgery, or radiation therapy.

Spinal cord ischemia refers to a reduction or interruption of blood flow to the spinal cord, leading to insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply. This condition can cause damage to the spinal cord tissue, potentially resulting in neurological deficits, such as muscle weakness, sensory loss, or autonomic dysfunction. Spinal cord ischemia may be caused by various factors, including atherosclerosis, embolism, spinal artery stenosis, or complications during surgery. The severity and extent of the neurological impairment depend on the duration and location of the ischemic event in the spinal cord.

Spinal injections, also known as epidural injections or intrathecal injections, are medical procedures involving the injection of medications directly into the spinal canal. The medication is usually delivered into the space surrounding the spinal cord (the epidural space) or into the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds and protects the spinal cord (the subarachnoid space).

The medications used in spinal injections can include local anesthetics, steroids, opioids, or a combination of these. The purpose of spinal injections is to provide diagnostic information, therapeutic relief, or both. They are commonly used to treat various conditions affecting the spine, such as radicular pain (pain that radiates down the arms or legs), disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease.

Spinal injections can be administered using different techniques, including fluoroscopy-guided injections, computed tomography (CT) scan-guided injections, or with the help of a nerve stimulator. These techniques ensure accurate placement of the medication and minimize the risk of complications.

It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for specific information regarding spinal injections and their potential benefits and risks.

Paraplegia is a medical condition characterized by partial or complete loss of motor function and sensation in the lower extremities, typically affecting both legs. This results from damage to the spinal cord, often due to trauma such as accidents, falls, or gunshot wounds, or from diseases like spina bifida, polio, or tumors. The specific area and extent of the injury on the spinal cord determine the severity and location of paralysis. Individuals with paraplegia may require assistive devices for mobility, such as wheelchairs, and may face various health challenges, including pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and chronic pain.

Spinal nerve roots are the initial parts of spinal nerves that emerge from the spinal cord through the intervertebral foramen, which are small openings between each vertebra in the spine. These nerve roots carry motor, sensory, and autonomic fibers to and from specific regions of the body. There are 31 pairs of spinal nerve roots in total, with 8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal pair. Each root has a dorsal (posterior) and ventral (anterior) ramus that branch off to form the peripheral nervous system. Irritation or compression of these nerve roots can result in pain, numbness, weakness, or loss of reflexes in the affected area.

Spinal nerves are the bundles of nerve fibers that transmit signals between the spinal cord and the rest of the body. There are 31 pairs of spinal nerves in the human body, which can be divided into five regions: 8 cervical, 12 thoracic, 5 lumbar, 5 sacral, and 1 coccygeal. Each spinal nerve carries both sensory information (such as touch, temperature, and pain) from the periphery to the spinal cord, and motor information (such as muscle control) from the spinal cord to the muscles and other structures in the body. Spinal nerves also contain autonomic fibers that regulate involuntary functions such as heart rate, digestion, and blood pressure.

Motor neurons are specialized nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that play a crucial role in controlling voluntary muscle movements. They transmit electrical signals from the brain to the muscles, enabling us to perform actions such as walking, talking, and swallowing. There are two types of motor neurons: upper motor neurons, which originate in the brain's motor cortex and travel down to the brainstem and spinal cord; and lower motor neurons, which extend from the brainstem and spinal cord to the muscles. Damage or degeneration of these motor neurons can lead to various neurological disorders, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

Spinal cord regeneration is the process of regrowth or repair of damaged or severed nerves and neural connections within the spinal cord. This complex process involves various biological mechanisms, including the activation of stem cells, the promotion of axonal growth, and the remodeling of neural circuits. The ultimate goal of spinal cord regeneration research is to develop effective therapies for individuals with spinal cord injuries, enabling them to regain sensory and motor functions and improve their quality of life.

Spinal neoplasms refer to abnormal growths or tumors found within the spinal column, which can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). These tumors can originate in the spine itself, called primary spinal neoplasms, or they can spread to the spine from other parts of the body, known as secondary or metastatic spinal neoplasms. Spinal neoplasms can cause various symptoms, such as back pain, neurological deficits, and even paralysis, depending on their location and size. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent or minimize long-term complications and improve the patient's prognosis.

The spinal canal is the bony, protective channel within the vertebral column that contains and houses the spinal cord. It extends from the foramen magnum at the base of the skull to the sacrum, where the spinal cord ends and forms the cauda equina. The spinal canal is formed by a series of vertebral bodies stacked on top of each other, intervertebral discs in between them, and the laminae and spinous processes that form the posterior elements of the vertebrae. The spinal canal provides protection to the spinal cord from external trauma and contains cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that circulates around the cord, providing nutrients and cushioning. Any narrowing or compression of the spinal canal, known as spinal stenosis, can cause various neurological symptoms due to pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

The cervical vertebrae are the seven vertebrae that make up the upper part of the spine, also known as the neck region. They are labeled C1 to C7, with C1 being closest to the skull and C7 connecting to the thoracic vertebrae in the chest region. The cervical vertebrae have unique structures to allow for a wide range of motion in the neck while also protecting the spinal cord and providing attachment points for muscles and ligaments.

Spinal anesthesia is a type of regional anesthesia that involves injecting local anesthetic medication into the cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space, which is the space surrounding the spinal cord. This procedure is typically performed by introducing a needle into the lower back, between the vertebrae, to reach the subarachnoid space.

Once the local anesthetic is introduced into this space, it spreads to block nerve impulses from the corresponding levels of the spine, resulting in numbness and loss of sensation in specific areas of the body below the injection site. The extent and level of anesthesia depend on the amount and type of medication used, as well as the patient's individual response.

Spinal anesthesia is often used for surgeries involving the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower extremities, such as cesarean sections, hernia repairs, hip replacements, and knee arthroscopies. It can also be utilized for procedures like epidural steroid injections to manage chronic pain conditions affecting the spine and lower limbs.

While spinal anesthesia provides effective pain relief during and after surgery, it may cause side effects such as low blood pressure, headache, or difficulty urinating. These potential complications should be discussed with the healthcare provider before deciding on this type of anesthesia.

Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is a medical condition characterized by paralysis affecting all four limbs and the trunk of the body. It results from damage to the cervical spinal cord, typically at levels C1-C8, which controls signals to the muscles in the arms, hands, trunk, legs, and pelvic organs. The extent of quadriplegia can vary widely, ranging from weakness to complete loss of movement and sensation below the level of injury. Other symptoms may include difficulty breathing, bowel and bladder dysfunction, and sexual dysfunction. The severity and prognosis depend on the location and extent of the spinal cord injury.

The thoracic vertebrae are the 12 vertebrae in the thoracic region of the spine, which is the portion between the cervical and lumbar regions. These vertebrae are numbered T1 to T12, with T1 being closest to the skull and T12 connecting to the lumbar region.

The main function of the thoracic vertebrae is to provide stability and support for the chest region, including protection for the vital organs within, such as the heart and lungs. Each thoracic vertebra has costal facets on its sides, which articulate with the heads of the ribs, forming the costovertebral joints. This connection between the spine and the ribcage allows for a range of movements while maintaining stability.

The thoracic vertebrae have a unique structure compared to other regions of the spine. They are characterized by having long, narrow bodies, small bony processes, and prominent spinous processes that point downwards. This particular shape and orientation of the thoracic vertebrae contribute to their role in limiting excessive spinal movement and providing overall trunk stability.

Spinal diseases refer to a range of medical conditions that affect the spinal column, which is made up of vertebrae (bones), intervertebral discs, facet joints, nerves, ligaments, and muscles. These diseases can cause pain, discomfort, stiffness, numbness, weakness, or even paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the condition. Here are some examples of spinal diseases:

1. Degenerative disc disease: This is a condition where the intervertebral discs lose their elasticity and height, leading to stiffness, pain, and decreased mobility.
2. Herniated disc: This occurs when the inner material of the intervertebral disc bulges or herniates out through a tear in the outer layer, causing pressure on the spinal nerves and resulting in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected area.
3. Spinal stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spinal canal or the neural foramen (the openings where the spinal nerves exit the spinal column), which can cause pressure on the spinal cord or nerves and result in pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.
4. Scoliosis: This is a curvature of the spine that can occur in children or adults, leading to an abnormal posture, back pain, and decreased lung function.
5. Osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative joint disease that affects the facet joints in the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.
6. Ankylosing spondylitis: This is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the spine and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and fusion of the vertebrae.
7. Spinal tumors: These are abnormal growths that can occur in the spinal column, which can be benign or malignant, causing pain, neurological symptoms, or even paralysis.
8. Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can affect the spine, leading to pain, fever, and other systemic symptoms.
9. Trauma: Fractures, dislocations, or sprains of the spine can occur due to accidents, falls, or sports injuries, causing pain, neurological deficits, or even paralysis.

The umbilical cord is a flexible, tube-like structure that connects the developing fetus to the placenta in the uterus during pregnancy. It arises from the abdomen of the fetus and transports essential nutrients, oxygen, and blood from the mother's circulation to the growing baby. Additionally, it carries waste products, such as carbon dioxide, from the fetus back to the placenta for elimination. The umbilical cord is primarily composed of two arteries (the umbilical arteries) and one vein (the umbilical vein), surrounded by a protective gelatinous substance called Wharton's jelly, and enclosed within a fibrous outer covering known as the umbilical cord coating. Following birth, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, leaving behind the stump that eventually dries up and falls off, resulting in the baby's belly button.

Posterior horn cells refer to the neurons located in the posterior (or dorsal) horn of the gray matter in the spinal cord. These cells are primarily responsible for receiving and processing sensory information from peripheral nerves, particularly related to touch, pressure, pain, and temperature. The axons of these cells form the ascending tracts that carry this information to the brain for further processing. It's worth noting that damage to posterior horn cells can result in various sensory deficits, such as those seen in certain neurological conditions.

A laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of the lamina, which is the back part of the vertebra that covers the spinal canal. This procedure is often performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or tumors. By removing the lamina, the surgeon can access the affected area and alleviate the compression on the spinal cord or nerves, thereby reducing pain, numbness, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms.

Laminectomy may be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with other surgical techniques such as discectomy, foraminotomy, or spinal fusion. The specific approach and extent of the surgery will depend on the patient's individual condition and symptoms.

Sprague-Dawley rats are a strain of albino laboratory rats that are widely used in scientific research. They were first developed by researchers H.H. Sprague and R.C. Dawley in the early 20th century, and have since become one of the most commonly used rat strains in biomedical research due to their relatively large size, ease of handling, and consistent genetic background.

Sprague-Dawley rats are outbred, which means that they are genetically diverse and do not suffer from the same limitations as inbred strains, which can have reduced fertility and increased susceptibility to certain diseases. They are also characterized by their docile nature and low levels of aggression, making them easier to handle and study than some other rat strains.

These rats are used in a wide variety of research areas, including toxicology, pharmacology, nutrition, cancer, and behavioral studies. Because they are genetically diverse, Sprague-Dawley rats can be used to model a range of human diseases and conditions, making them an important tool in the development of new drugs and therapies.

The lumbosacral region is the lower part of the back where the lumbar spine (five vertebrae in the lower back) connects with the sacrum (a triangular bone at the base of the spine). This region is subject to various conditions such as sprains, strains, herniated discs, and degenerative disorders that can cause pain and discomfort. It's also a common site for surgical intervention when non-surgical treatments fail to provide relief.

"Recovery of function" is a term used in medical rehabilitation to describe the process in which an individual regains the ability to perform activities or tasks that were previously difficult or impossible due to injury, illness, or disability. This can involve both physical and cognitive functions. The goal of recovery of function is to help the person return to their prior level of independence and participation in daily activities, work, and social roles as much as possible.

Recovery of function may be achieved through various interventions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, and other rehabilitation strategies. The specific approach used will depend on the individual's needs and the nature of their impairment. Recovery of function can occur spontaneously as the body heals, or it may require targeted interventions to help facilitate the process.

It is important to note that recovery of function does not always mean a full return to pre-injury or pre-illness levels of ability. Instead, it often refers to the person's ability to adapt and compensate for any remaining impairments, allowing them to achieve their maximum level of functional independence and quality of life.

Nerve regeneration is the process of regrowth and restoration of functional nerve connections following damage or injury to the nervous system. This complex process involves various cellular and molecular events, such as the activation of support cells called glia, the sprouting of surviving nerve fibers (axons), and the reformation of neural circuits. The goal of nerve regeneration is to enable the restoration of normal sensory, motor, and autonomic functions impaired due to nerve damage or injury.

An axon is a long, slender extension of a neuron (a type of nerve cell) that conducts electrical impulses (nerve impulses) away from the cell body to target cells, such as other neurons or muscle cells. Axons can vary in length from a few micrometers to over a meter long and are typically surrounded by a myelin sheath, which helps to insulate and protect the axon and allows for faster transmission of nerve impulses.

Axons play a critical role in the functioning of the nervous system, as they provide the means by which neurons communicate with one another and with other cells in the body. Damage to axons can result in serious neurological problems, such as those seen in spinal cord injuries or neurodegenerative diseases like multiple sclerosis.

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal or the neural foramina (the openings through which nerves exit the spinal column), typically in the lower back (lumbar) or neck (cervical) regions. This can put pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected areas, often in the legs, arms, or hands. It's most commonly caused by age-related wear and tear, but can also be due to degenerative changes, herniated discs, tumors, or spinal injuries.

Pancreatic neoplasms refer to abnormal growths in the pancreas that can be benign or malignant. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach that produces hormones and digestive enzymes. Pancreatic neoplasms can interfere with the normal functioning of the pancreas, leading to various health complications.

Benign pancreatic neoplasms are non-cancerous growths that do not spread to other parts of the body. They are usually removed through surgery to prevent any potential complications, such as blocking the bile duct or causing pain.

Malignant pancreatic neoplasms, also known as pancreatic cancer, are cancerous growths that can invade and destroy surrounding tissues and organs. They can also spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, or bones. Pancreatic cancer is often aggressive and difficult to treat, with a poor prognosis.

There are several types of pancreatic neoplasms, including adenocarcinomas, neuroendocrine tumors, solid pseudopapillary neoplasms, and cystic neoplasms. The specific type of neoplasm is determined through various diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies, biopsies, and blood tests. Treatment options depend on the type, stage, and location of the neoplasm, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.

Spinal ganglia, also known as dorsal root ganglia, are clusters of nerve cell bodies located in the peripheral nervous system. They are situated along the length of the spinal cord and are responsible for transmitting sensory information from the body to the brain. Each spinal ganglion contains numerous neurons, or nerve cells, with long processes called axons that extend into the periphery and innervate various tissues and organs. The cell bodies within the spinal ganglia receive sensory input from these axons and transmit this information to the central nervous system via the dorsal roots of the spinal nerves. This allows the brain to interpret and respond to a wide range of sensory stimuli, including touch, temperature, pain, and proprioception (the sense of the position and movement of one's body).

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is a medical procedure that involves the use of an implanted device to deliver electrical pulses to the spinal cord. The pulses are intended to interrupt or mask the transmission of pain signals to the brain, thereby reducing the perception of pain. SCS is typically offered as a treatment option for patients with chronic pain who have not found relief from other therapies, such as medication or surgery.

During the procedure, electrodes are placed in the epidural space of the spinal cord, and connected to a pulse generator that is implanted under the skin, usually in the abdomen or buttocks. The patient can use a remote control to adjust the intensity and location of the stimulation, allowing them to customize the therapy to their individual pain patterns.

SCS is generally considered safe, although there are some risks associated with the procedure, such as infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their healthcare provider before deciding whether to undergo SCS.

Locomotion, in a medical context, refers to the ability to move independently and change location. It involves the coordinated movement of the muscles, bones, and nervous system that enables an individual to move from one place to another. This can include walking, running, jumping, or using assistive devices such as wheelchairs or crutches. Locomotion is a fundamental aspect of human mobility and is often assessed in medical evaluations to determine overall health and functioning.

Spinal fusion is a surgical procedure where two or more vertebrae in the spine are fused together to create a solid bone. The purpose of this procedure is to restrict movement between the fused vertebrae, which can help reduce pain and stabilize the spine. This is typically done using bone grafts or bone graft substitutes, along with hardware such as rods, screws, or cages to hold the vertebrae in place while they heal together. The procedure may be recommended for various spinal conditions, including degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, scoliosis, or fractures.

Spinal injuries refer to damages or traumas that occur to the vertebral column, which houses and protects the spinal cord. These injuries can be caused by various factors such as trauma from accidents (motor vehicle, sports-related, falls, etc.), violence, or degenerative conditions like arthritis, disc herniation, or spinal stenosis.

Spinal injuries can result in bruising, fractures, dislocations, or compression of the vertebrae, which may then cause damage to the spinal cord and its surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. The severity of a spinal injury can range from mild, with temporary symptoms, to severe, resulting in permanent impairment or paralysis below the level of injury.

Symptoms of spinal injuries may include:
- Pain or stiffness in the neck or back
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Paralysis or loss of sensation below the level of injury
- In severe cases, respiratory problems and difficulty in breathing

Immediate medical attention is crucial for spinal injuries to prevent further damage and ensure proper treatment. Treatment options may include immobilization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.

Anterior horn cells, also known as motor neurons, are a type of nerve cell located in the anterior (ventral) horn of the spinal cord's gray matter. These cells play a crucial role in initiating and regulating voluntary muscle movement by transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles via the peripheral nervous system.

Damage or degeneration of the anterior horn cells can result in various neuromuscular disorders, such as spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). These conditions can lead to muscle weakness, atrophy, and paralysis.

Myelitis is a medical term that refers to inflammation of the spinal cord. This inflammation can cause damage to the myelin sheath, which is the protective covering of nerve fibers in the spinal cord. As a result, the transmission of nerve impulses along the spinal cord may be disrupted, leading to various neurological symptoms.

Myelitis can affect any part of the spinal cord and can have many different causes, including infections (such as viral or bacterial infections), autoimmune disorders (such as multiple sclerosis), and other conditions (such as spinal cord injuries or tumors). The specific symptoms of myelitis depend on the location and severity of the inflammation. They may include muscle weakness, numbness or tingling sensations, pain, bladder or bowel dysfunction, and difficulty with coordination and balance.

Myelitis can be a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Treatment typically focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the inflammation, as well as managing symptoms and supporting recovery.

Neoplasms are abnormal growths of cells or tissues in the body that serve no physiological function. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign neoplasms are typically slow growing and do not spread to other parts of the body, while malignant neoplasms are aggressive, invasive, and can metastasize to distant sites.

Neoplasms occur when there is a dysregulation in the normal process of cell division and differentiation, leading to uncontrolled growth and accumulation of cells. This can result from genetic mutations or other factors such as viral infections, environmental exposures, or hormonal imbalances.

Neoplasms can develop in any organ or tissue of the body and can cause various symptoms depending on their size, location, and type. Treatment options for neoplasms include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, among others.

Cordotomy is a surgical procedure that involves selectively cutting the spinothalamic tract, which carries pain and temperature signals from the body to the brain. This procedure is typically performed in the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord and is used to treat chronic, severe pain that has not responded to other forms of treatment.

During a cordotomy, a neurosurgeon uses a specialized needle or electrode to locate and destroy the specific nerve fibers responsible for transmitting painful sensations from a particular part of the body. The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the patient's preferences and medical condition.

While cordotomy can provide significant pain relief in the short term, it is not a permanent solution, as the nerve fibers may eventually regenerate over time. Additionally, there are risks associated with the procedure, including weakness or numbness in the affected limbs, difficulty swallowing, and in rare cases, respiratory failure. Therefore, cordotomy is typically reserved for patients with severe pain who have exhausted other treatment options and have a limited life expectancy due to their underlying medical condition.

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a technique used in pathology and laboratory medicine to identify specific proteins or antigens in tissue sections. It combines the principles of immunology and histology to detect the presence and location of these target molecules within cells and tissues. This technique utilizes antibodies that are specific to the protein or antigen of interest, which are then tagged with a detection system such as a chromogen or fluorophore. The stained tissue sections can be examined under a microscope, allowing for the visualization and analysis of the distribution and expression patterns of the target molecule in the context of the tissue architecture. Immunohistochemistry is widely used in diagnostic pathology to help identify various diseases, including cancer, infectious diseases, and immune-mediated disorders.

Paralysis is a loss of muscle function in part or all of your body. It can be localized, affecting only one specific area, or generalized, impacting multiple areas or even the entire body. Paralysis often occurs when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. In most cases, paralysis is caused by damage to the nervous system, especially the spinal cord. Other causes include stroke, trauma, infections, and various neurological disorders.

It's important to note that paralysis doesn't always mean a total loss of movement or feeling. Sometimes, it may just cause weakness or numbness in the affected area. The severity and extent of paralysis depend on the underlying cause and the location of the damage in the nervous system.

Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage. It is a complex phenomenon that can result from various stimuli, such as thermal, mechanical, or chemical irritation, and it can be acute or chronic. The perception of pain involves the activation of specialized nerve cells called nociceptors, which transmit signals to the brain via the spinal cord. These signals are then processed in different regions of the brain, leading to the conscious experience of pain. It's important to note that pain is a highly individual and subjective experience, and its perception can vary widely among individuals.

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a genetic disorder that affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy. It is caused by a mutation in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, which results in a deficiency of SMN protein necessary for the survival of motor neurons.

There are several types of SMA, classified based on the age of onset and severity of symptoms. The most common type is type 1, also known as Werdnig-Hoffmann disease, which presents in infancy and is characterized by severe muscle weakness, hypotonia, and feeding difficulties. Other types include type 2 (intermediate SMA), type 3 (Kugelberg-Welander disease), and type 4 (adult-onset SMA).

The symptoms of SMA may include muscle wasting, fasciculations, weakness, hypotonia, respiratory difficulties, and mobility impairment. The diagnosis of SMA typically involves genetic testing to confirm the presence of a mutation in the SMN1 gene. Treatment options for SMA may include medications, physical therapy, assistive devices, and respiratory support.

Animal disease models are specialized animals, typically rodents such as mice or rats, that have been genetically engineered or exposed to certain conditions to develop symptoms and physiological changes similar to those seen in human diseases. These models are used in medical research to study the pathophysiology of diseases, identify potential therapeutic targets, test drug efficacy and safety, and understand disease mechanisms.

The genetic modifications can include knockout or knock-in mutations, transgenic expression of specific genes, or RNA interference techniques. The animals may also be exposed to environmental factors such as chemicals, radiation, or infectious agents to induce the disease state.

Examples of animal disease models include:

1. Mouse models of cancer: Genetically engineered mice that develop various types of tumors, allowing researchers to study cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.
2. Alzheimer's disease models: Transgenic mice expressing mutant human genes associated with Alzheimer's disease, which exhibit amyloid plaque formation and cognitive decline.
3. Diabetes models: Obese and diabetic mouse strains like the NOD (non-obese diabetic) or db/db mice, used to study the development of type 1 and type 2 diabetes, respectively.
4. Cardiovascular disease models: Atherosclerosis-prone mice, such as ApoE-deficient or LDLR-deficient mice, that develop plaque buildup in their arteries when fed a high-fat diet.
5. Inflammatory bowel disease models: Mice with genetic mutations affecting intestinal barrier function and immune response, such as IL-10 knockout or SAMP1/YitFc mice, which develop colitis.

Animal disease models are essential tools in preclinical research, but it is important to recognize their limitations. Differences between species can affect the translatability of results from animal studies to human patients. Therefore, researchers must carefully consider the choice of model and interpret findings cautiously when applying them to human diseases.

Neurons, also known as nerve cells or neurocytes, are specialized cells that constitute the basic unit of the nervous system. They are responsible for receiving, processing, and transmitting information and signals within the body. Neurons have three main parts: the dendrites, the cell body (soma), and the axon. The dendrites receive signals from other neurons or sensory receptors, while the axon transmits these signals to other neurons, muscles, or glands. The junction between two neurons is called a synapse, where neurotransmitters are released to transmit the signal across the gap (synaptic cleft) to the next neuron. Neurons vary in size, shape, and structure depending on their function and location within the nervous system.

Neoplasms: Neoplasms refer to abnormal growths of tissue that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They occur when the normal control mechanisms that regulate cell growth and division are disrupted, leading to uncontrolled cell proliferation.

Cystic Neoplasms: Cystic neoplasms are tumors that contain fluid-filled sacs or cysts. These tumors can be benign or malignant and can occur in various organs of the body, including the pancreas, ovary, and liver.

Mucinous Neoplasms: Mucinous neoplasms are a type of cystic neoplasm that is characterized by the production of mucin, a gel-like substance produced by certain types of cells. These tumors can occur in various organs, including the ovary, pancreas, and colon. Mucinous neoplasms can be benign or malignant, and malignant forms are often aggressive and have a poor prognosis.

Serous Neoplasms: Serous neoplasms are another type of cystic neoplasm that is characterized by the production of serous fluid, which is a thin, watery fluid. These tumors commonly occur in the ovary and can be benign or malignant. Malignant serous neoplasms are often aggressive and have a poor prognosis.

In summary, neoplasms refer to abnormal tissue growths that can be benign or malignant. Cystic neoplasms contain fluid-filled sacs and can occur in various organs of the body. Mucinous neoplasms produce a gel-like substance called mucin and can also occur in various organs, while serous neoplasms produce thin, watery fluid and commonly occur in the ovary. Both mucinous and serous neoplasms can be benign or malignant, with malignant forms often being aggressive and having a poor prognosis.

Hyperalgesia is a medical term that describes an increased sensitivity to pain. It occurs when the nervous system, specifically the nociceptors (pain receptors), become excessively sensitive to stimuli. This means that a person experiences pain from a stimulus that normally wouldn't cause pain or experiences pain that is more intense than usual. Hyperalgesia can be a result of various conditions such as nerve damage, inflammation, or certain medications. It's an important symptom to monitor in patients with chronic pain conditions, as it may indicate the development of tolerance or addiction to pain medication.

Electric stimulation therapy, also known as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) or electromyostimulation, is a therapeutic treatment that uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles and nerves. The electrical signals are delivered through electrodes placed on the skin near the target muscle group or nerve.

The therapy can be used for various purposes, including:

1. Pain management: Electric stimulation can help reduce pain by stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body. It can also help block the transmission of pain signals to the brain.
2. Muscle rehabilitation: NMES can be used to prevent muscle atrophy and maintain muscle tone in individuals who are unable to move their muscles due to injury or illness, such as spinal cord injuries or stroke.
3. Improving circulation: Electric stimulation can help improve blood flow and reduce swelling by contracting the muscles and promoting the movement of fluids in the body.
4. Wound healing: NMES can be used to promote wound healing by increasing blood flow, reducing swelling, and improving muscle function around the wound site.
5. Muscle strengthening: Electric stimulation can be used to strengthen muscles by causing them to contract and relax repeatedly, which can help improve muscle strength and endurance.

It is important to note that electric stimulation therapy should only be administered under the guidance of a trained healthcare professional, as improper use can cause harm or discomfort.

Neuralgia is a type of pain that occurs along the pathway of a nerve, often caused by damage or irritation to the nerve. It is typically described as a sharp, stabbing, burning, or electric-shock like pain that can be severe and debilitating. Neuralgia can affect any nerve in the body, but it most commonly occurs in the facial area (trigeminal neuralgia) or in the nerves related to the spine (postherpetic neuralgia). The pain associated with neuralgia can be intermittent or constant and may be worsened by certain triggers such as touch, temperature changes, or movement. Treatment for neuralgia typically involves medications to manage pain, as well as other therapies such as nerve blocks, surgery, or lifestyle modifications.

Myelography is a medical imaging technique used to examine the spinal cord and surrounding structures, such as the spinal nerves, intervertebral discs, and the spinal column. This procedure involves the injection of a contrast dye into the subarachnoid space, which is the area surrounding the spinal cord filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The dye outlines the spinal structures, making them visible on X-ray or CT scan images.

The primary purpose of myelography is to diagnose various spinal conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, infection, and traumatic injuries. It can help identify any compression or irritation of the spinal cord or nerves that may be causing pain, numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms.

The procedure typically requires the patient to lie flat on their stomach or side while the radiologist inserts a thin needle into the subarachnoid space, usually at the lower lumbar level. Once the contrast dye is injected, the patient will be repositioned for various X-ray views or undergo a CT scan to capture detailed images of the spine. After the procedure, patients may experience headaches, nausea, or discomfort at the injection site, but these symptoms usually resolve within a few days.

In the field of medicine, "time factors" refer to the duration of symptoms or time elapsed since the onset of a medical condition, which can have significant implications for diagnosis and treatment. Understanding time factors is crucial in determining the progression of a disease, evaluating the effectiveness of treatments, and making critical decisions regarding patient care.

For example, in stroke management, "time is brain," meaning that rapid intervention within a specific time frame (usually within 4.5 hours) is essential to administering tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), a clot-busting drug that can minimize brain damage and improve patient outcomes. Similarly, in trauma care, the "golden hour" concept emphasizes the importance of providing definitive care within the first 60 minutes after injury to increase survival rates and reduce morbidity.

Time factors also play a role in monitoring the progression of chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, where regular follow-ups and assessments help determine appropriate treatment adjustments and prevent complications. In infectious diseases, time factors are crucial for initiating antibiotic therapy and identifying potential outbreaks to control their spread.

Overall, "time factors" encompass the significance of recognizing and acting promptly in various medical scenarios to optimize patient outcomes and provide effective care.

Medical Definition:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed cross-sectional or three-dimensional images of the internal structures of the body. The patient lies within a large, cylindrical magnet, and the scanner detects changes in the direction of the magnetic field caused by protons in the body. These changes are then converted into detailed images that help medical professionals to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, such as tumors, injuries, or diseases affecting the brain, spinal cord, heart, blood vessels, joints, and other internal organs. MRI does not use radiation like computed tomography (CT) scans.

Electric stimulation, also known as electrical nerve stimulation or neuromuscular electrical stimulation, is a therapeutic treatment that uses low-voltage electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles. It is often used to help manage pain, promote healing, and improve muscle strength and mobility. The electrical impulses can be delivered through electrodes placed on the skin or directly implanted into the body.

In a medical context, electric stimulation may be used for various purposes such as:

1. Pain management: Electric stimulation can help to block pain signals from reaching the brain and promote the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.
2. Muscle rehabilitation: Electric stimulation can help to strengthen muscles that have become weak due to injury, illness, or surgery. It can also help to prevent muscle atrophy and improve range of motion.
3. Wound healing: Electric stimulation can promote tissue growth and help to speed up the healing process in wounds, ulcers, and other types of injuries.
4. Urinary incontinence: Electric stimulation can be used to strengthen the muscles that control urination and reduce symptoms of urinary incontinence.
5. Migraine prevention: Electric stimulation can be used as a preventive treatment for migraines by applying electrical impulses to specific nerves in the head and neck.

It is important to note that electric stimulation should only be administered under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional, as improper use can cause harm or discomfort.

The spine, also known as the vertebral column, is a complex structure in the human body that is part of the axial skeleton. It is composed of 33 individual vertebrae (except in some people where there are fewer due to fusion of certain vertebrae), intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, muscles, and nerves.

The spine has several important functions:

1. Protection: The spine protects the spinal cord, which is a major component of the nervous system, by enclosing it within a bony canal.
2. Support: The spine supports the head and upper body, allowing us to maintain an upright posture and facilitating movement of the trunk and head.
3. Movement: The spine enables various movements such as flexion (bending forward), extension (bending backward), lateral flexion (bending sideways), and rotation (twisting).
4. Weight-bearing: The spine helps distribute weight and pressure evenly across the body, reducing stress on individual vertebrae and other structures.
5. Blood vessel and nerve protection: The spine protects vital blood vessels and nerves that pass through it, including the aorta, vena cava, and spinal nerves.

The spine is divided into five regions: cervical (7 vertebrae), thoracic (12 vertebrae), lumbar (5 vertebrae), sacrum (5 fused vertebrae), and coccyx (4 fused vertebrae, also known as the tailbone). Each region has unique characteristics that allow for specific functions and adaptations to the body's needs.

The epidural space is the potential space located outside the dura mater, which is the outermost of the three membranes covering the brain and spinal cord (the meninges). This space runs the entire length of the spinal canal and contains fatty tissue, blood vessels, and nerve roots. It is often used as a route for administering anesthesia during childbirth or surgery, as well as for pain management in certain medical conditions. The injection of medications into this space is called an epidural block.

Afferent pathways, also known as sensory pathways, refer to the neural connections that transmit sensory information from the peripheral nervous system to the central nervous system (CNS), specifically to the brain and spinal cord. These pathways are responsible for carrying various types of sensory information, such as touch, temperature, pain, pressure, vibration, hearing, vision, and taste, to the CNS for processing and interpretation.

The afferent pathways begin with sensory receptors located throughout the body, which detect changes in the environment and convert them into electrical signals. These signals are then transmitted via afferent neurons, also known as sensory neurons, to the spinal cord or brainstem. Within the CNS, the information is further processed and integrated with other neural inputs before being relayed to higher cognitive centers for conscious awareness and response.

Understanding the anatomy and physiology of afferent pathways is essential for diagnosing and treating various neurological conditions that affect sensory function, such as neuropathies, spinal cord injuries, and brain disorders.

Neurogenic bladder is a term used to describe bladder dysfunction due to neurological damage or disease. The condition can result in problems with bladder storage and emptying, leading to symptoms such as urinary frequency, urgency, hesitancy, incontinence, and retention.

Neurogenic bladder can occur due to various medical conditions, including spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, diabetic neuropathy, and stroke. The damage to the nerves that control bladder function can result in overactivity or underactivity of the bladder muscle, leading to urinary symptoms.

Management of neurogenic bladder typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including medications, bladder training, catheterization, and surgery in some cases. The specific treatment plan depends on the underlying cause of the condition and the severity of the symptoms.

An epidural spinal hematoma is a rare but potentially serious medical condition characterized by the accumulation of blood in the epidural space of the spinal canal. The epidural space is the outermost layer of the spinal canal and it contains fat, blood vessels, and nerve roots.

In an epidural spinal hematoma, blood collects in this space, often as a result of trauma or injury to the spine, or due to complications from medical procedures such as spinal taps or epidural anesthesia. The buildup of blood can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to symptoms such as back pain, muscle weakness, numbness, or paralysis below the level of the hematoma.

Epidural spinal hematomas require immediate medical attention and may necessitate surgical intervention to relieve the pressure on the spinal cord and prevent further nerve damage. Risk factors for developing an epidural spinal hematoma include bleeding disorders, anticoagulant medication use, and spinal trauma or surgery.

A hindlimb, also known as a posterior limb, is one of the pair of extremities that are located distally to the trunk in tetrapods (four-legged vertebrates) and include mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. In humans and other primates, hindlimbs are equivalent to the lower limbs, which consist of the thigh, leg, foot, and toes.

The primary function of hindlimbs is locomotion, allowing animals to move from one place to another. However, they also play a role in other activities such as balance, support, and communication. In humans, the hindlimbs are responsible for weight-bearing, standing, walking, running, and jumping.

In medical terminology, the term "hindlimb" is not commonly used to describe human anatomy. Instead, healthcare professionals use terms like lower limbs or lower extremities to refer to the same region of the body. However, in comparative anatomy and veterinary medicine, the term hindlimb is still widely used to describe the corresponding structures in non-human animals.

Afferent neurons, also known as sensory neurons, are a type of nerve cell that conducts impulses or signals from peripheral receptors towards the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. These neurons are responsible for transmitting sensory information such as touch, temperature, pain, sound, and light to the CNS for processing and interpretation. Afferent neurons have specialized receptor endings that detect changes in the environment and convert them into electrical signals, which are then transmitted to the CNS via synapses with other neurons. Once the signals reach the CNS, they are processed and integrated with other information to produce a response or reaction to the stimulus.

Nociceptors are specialized peripheral sensory neurons that detect and transmit signals indicating potentially harmful stimuli in the form of pain. They are activated by various noxious stimuli such as extreme temperatures, intense pressure, or chemical irritants. Once activated, nociceptors transmit these signals to the central nervous system (spinal cord and brain) where they are interpreted as painful sensations, leading to protective responses like withdrawing from the harmful stimulus or seeking medical attention. Nociceptors play a crucial role in our perception of pain and help protect the body from further harm.

The lumbar vertebrae are the five largest and strongest vertebrae in the human spine, located in the lower back region. They are responsible for bearing most of the body's weight and providing stability during movement. The lumbar vertebrae have a characteristic shape, with a large body in the front, which serves as the main weight-bearing structure, and a bony ring in the back, formed by the pedicles, laminae, and processes. This ring encloses and protects the spinal cord and nerves. The lumbar vertebrae are numbered L1 to L5, starting from the uppermost one. They allow for flexion, extension, lateral bending, and rotation movements of the trunk.

A reflex is an automatic, involuntary and rapid response to a stimulus that occurs without conscious intention. In the context of physiology and neurology, it's a basic mechanism that involves the transmission of nerve impulses between neurons, resulting in a muscle contraction or glandular secretion.

Reflexes are important for maintaining homeostasis, protecting the body from harm, and coordinating movements. They can be tested clinically to assess the integrity of the nervous system, such as the knee-j jerk reflex, which tests the function of the L3-L4 spinal nerve roots and the sensitivity of the stretch reflex arc.

Multiple primary neoplasms refer to the occurrence of more than one primary malignant tumor in an individual, where each tumor is unrelated to the other and originates from separate cells or organs. This differs from metastatic cancer, where a single malignancy spreads to multiple sites in the body. Multiple primary neoplasms can be synchronous (occurring at the same time) or metachronous (occurring at different times). The risk of developing multiple primary neoplasms increases with age and is associated with certain genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices such as smoking and alcohol consumption.

I'm sorry for any confusion, but "lampreys" is not a medical term. It refers to a type of jawless aquatic vertebrate that are eel-like in appearance. They are parasitic creatures, with a suction cup-like mouth and circular rows of teeth, which they use to attach to fish and suck their body fluids. If you have any questions about medical terminology or concepts, I'd be happy to help with those!

Skin neoplasms refer to abnormal growths or tumors in the skin that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They result from uncontrolled multiplication of skin cells, which can form various types of lesions. These growths may appear as lumps, bumps, sores, patches, or discolored areas on the skin.

Benign skin neoplasms include conditions such as moles, warts, and seborrheic keratoses, while malignant skin neoplasms are primarily classified into melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma. These three types of cancerous skin growths are collectively known as non-melanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Melanoma is the most aggressive and dangerous form of skin cancer, while NMSCs tend to be less invasive but more common.

It's essential to monitor any changes in existing skin lesions or the appearance of new growths and consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment if needed.

"Cat" is a common name that refers to various species of small carnivorous mammals that belong to the family Felidae. The domestic cat, also known as Felis catus or Felis silvestris catus, is a popular pet and companion animal. It is a subspecies of the wildcat, which is found in Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Domestic cats are often kept as pets because of their companionship, playful behavior, and ability to hunt vermin. They are also valued for their ability to provide emotional support and therapy to people. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means that they require a diet that consists mainly of meat to meet their nutritional needs.

Cats are known for their agility, sharp senses, and predatory instincts. They have retractable claws, which they use for hunting and self-defense. Cats also have a keen sense of smell, hearing, and vision, which allow them to detect prey and navigate their environment.

In medical terms, cats can be hosts to various parasites and diseases that can affect humans and other animals. Some common feline diseases include rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and toxoplasmosis. It is important for cat owners to keep their pets healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations and preventative treatments to protect both the cats and their human companions.

"Motor activity" is a general term used in the field of medicine and neuroscience to refer to any kind of physical movement or action that is generated by the body's motor system. The motor system includes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles that work together to produce movements such as walking, talking, reaching for an object, or even subtle actions like moving your eyes.

Motor activity can be voluntary, meaning it is initiated intentionally by the individual, or involuntary, meaning it is triggered automatically by the nervous system without conscious control. Examples of voluntary motor activity include deliberately lifting your arm or kicking a ball, while examples of involuntary motor activity include heartbeat, digestion, and reflex actions like jerking your hand away from a hot stove.

Abnormalities in motor activity can be a sign of neurological or muscular disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, cerebral palsy, or multiple sclerosis. Assessment of motor activity is often used in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.

Autonomic dysreflexia is a medical condition that primarily affects individuals with spinal cord injuries at level T6 or above. It is characterized by an overactive autonomic nervous system response, leading to potentially life-threatening symptoms. This occurs when there is a stimulus below the level of the spinal cord injury that triggers a reflexive sympathetic nervous system response, causing a rapid and significant increase in blood pressure and heart rate.

Common triggers for autonomic dysreflexia include bladder distention, bowel distension or constipation, skin irritation, pressure sores, infection, or sexual activity. Symptoms of autonomic dysreflexia may include severe headaches, sweating above the level of injury, flushing or pallor, goosebumps, nasal congestion, and blurred vision. If left untreated, it can lead to seizures, stroke, or even cardiac arrest.

Management of autonomic dysreflexia involves identifying and removing the underlying trigger, as well as managing symptoms through medications such as antihypertensives, and monitoring vital signs closely. Prevention strategies include regular bladder and bowel management, skin checks, and prompt treatment of infections or other potential triggers.

Interneurons are a type of neuron that is located entirely within the central nervous system (CNS), including the brain and spinal cord. They are called "inter" neurons because they connect and communicate with other nearby neurons, forming complex networks within the CNS. Interneurons receive input from sensory neurons and/or other interneurons and then send output signals to motor neurons or other interneurons.

Interneurons are responsible for processing information and modulating neural circuits in the CNS. They can have either excitatory or inhibitory effects on their target neurons, depending on the type of neurotransmitters they release. Excitatory interneurons release neurotransmitters such as glutamate that increase the likelihood of an action potential in the postsynaptic neuron, while inhibitory interneurons release neurotransmitters such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) or glycine that decrease the likelihood of an action potential.

Interneurons are diverse and can be classified based on various criteria, including their morphology, electrophysiological properties, neurochemical characteristics, and connectivity patterns. They play crucial roles in many aspects of CNS function, such as sensory processing, motor control, cognition, and emotion regulation. Dysfunction or damage to interneurons has been implicated in various neurological and psychiatric disorders, including epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, and autism spectrum disorder.

The pyramidal tracts, also known as the corticospinal tracts, are bundles of nerve fibers that run through the brainstem and spinal cord, originating from the cerebral cortex. These tracts are responsible for transmitting motor signals from the brain to the muscles, enabling voluntary movement and control of the body.

The pyramidal tracts originate from the primary motor cortex in the frontal lobe of the brain and decussate (cross over) in the lower medulla oblongata before continuing down the spinal cord. The left pyramidal tract controls muscles on the right side of the body, while the right pyramidal tract controls muscles on the left side of the body.

Damage to the pyramidal tracts can result in various motor impairments, such as weakness or paralysis, spasticity, and loss of fine motor control, depending on the location and extent of the damage.

Electromyography (EMG) is a medical diagnostic procedure that measures the electrical activity of skeletal muscles during contraction and at rest. It involves inserting a thin needle electrode into the muscle to record the electrical signals generated by the muscle fibers. These signals are then displayed on an oscilloscope and may be heard through a speaker.

EMG can help diagnose various neuromuscular disorders, such as muscle weakness, numbness, or pain, and can distinguish between muscle and nerve disorders. It is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests, such as nerve conduction studies, to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the nervous system.

EMG is typically performed by a neurologist or a physiatrist, and the procedure may cause some discomfort or pain, although this is usually minimal. The results of an EMG can help guide treatment decisions and monitor the progression of neuromuscular conditions over time.

Pain measurement, in a medical context, refers to the quantification or evaluation of the intensity and/or unpleasantness of a patient's subjective pain experience. This is typically accomplished through the use of standardized self-report measures such as numerical rating scales (NRS), visual analog scales (VAS), or categorical scales (mild, moderate, severe). In some cases, physiological measures like heart rate, blood pressure, and facial expressions may also be used to supplement self-reported pain ratings. The goal of pain measurement is to help healthcare providers better understand the nature and severity of a patient's pain in order to develop an effective treatment plan.

Tuberculosis (TB) of the spine, also known as Pott's disease, is a specific form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis that involves the vertebral column. It is caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium, which primarily affects the lungs but can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body, including the spine.

In Pott's disease, the infection leads to the destruction of the spongy bone (vertebral body) and the intervertebral disc space, resulting in vertebral collapse, kyphosis (hunchback deformity), and potential neurological complications due to spinal cord compression. Common symptoms include back pain, stiffness, fever, night sweats, and weight loss. Early diagnosis and treatment with a multidrug antibiotic regimen are crucial to prevent long-term disability and further spread of the infection.

The myelin sheath is a multilayered, fatty substance that surrounds and insulates many nerve fibers in the nervous system. It is essential for the rapid transmission of electrical signals, or nerve impulses, along these nerve fibers, allowing for efficient communication between different parts of the body. The myelin sheath is produced by specialized cells called oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system (CNS) and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Damage to the myelin sheath, as seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis, can significantly impair nerve function and result in various neurological symptoms.

The Central Nervous System (CNS) is the part of the nervous system that consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is called the "central" system because it receives information from, and sends information to, the rest of the body through peripheral nerves, which make up the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS).

The CNS is responsible for processing sensory information, controlling motor functions, and regulating various autonomic processes like heart rate, respiration, and digestion. The brain, as the command center of the CNS, interprets sensory stimuli, formulates thoughts, and initiates actions. The spinal cord serves as a conduit for nerve impulses traveling to and from the brain and the rest of the body.

The CNS is protected by several structures, including the skull (which houses the brain) and the vertebral column (which surrounds and protects the spinal cord). Despite these protective measures, the CNS remains vulnerable to injury and disease, which can have severe consequences due to its crucial role in controlling essential bodily functions.

Fetal blood refers to the blood circulating in a fetus during pregnancy. It is essential for the growth and development of the fetus, as it carries oxygen and nutrients from the placenta to the developing tissues and organs. Fetal blood also removes waste products, such as carbon dioxide, from the fetal tissues and transports them to the placenta for elimination.

Fetal blood has several unique characteristics that distinguish it from adult blood. For example, fetal hemoglobin (HbF) is the primary type of hemoglobin found in fetal blood, whereas adults primarily have adult hemoglobin (HbA). Fetal hemoglobin has a higher affinity for oxygen than adult hemoglobin, which allows it to more efficiently extract oxygen from the maternal blood in the placenta.

Additionally, fetal blood contains a higher proportion of reticulocytes (immature red blood cells) and nucleated red blood cells compared to adult blood. These differences reflect the high turnover rate of red blood cells in the developing fetus and the need for rapid growth and development.

Examination of fetal blood can provide important information about the health and well-being of the fetus during pregnancy. For example, fetal blood sampling (also known as cordocentesis or percutaneous umbilical blood sampling) can be used to diagnose genetic disorders, infections, and other conditions that may affect fetal development. However, this procedure carries risks, including preterm labor, infection, and fetal loss, and is typically only performed when there is a significant risk of fetal compromise or when other diagnostic tests have been inconclusive.

Physical stimulation, in a medical context, refers to the application of external forces or agents to the body or its tissues to elicit a response. This can include various forms of touch, pressure, temperature, vibration, or electrical currents. The purpose of physical stimulation may be therapeutic, as in the case of massage or physical therapy, or diagnostic, as in the use of reflex tests. It is also used in research settings to study physiological responses and mechanisms.

In a broader sense, physical stimulation can also refer to the body's exposure to physical activity or exercise, which can have numerous health benefits, including improving cardiovascular function, increasing muscle strength and flexibility, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Neuroglia, also known as glial cells or simply glia, are non-neuronal cells that provide support and protection for neurons in the nervous system. They maintain homeostasis, form myelin sheaths around nerve fibers, and provide structural support. They also play a role in the immune response of the central nervous system. Some types of neuroglia include astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, microglia, and ependymal cells.

A contusion is a medical term for a bruise. It's a type of injury that occurs when blood vessels become damaged or broken as a result of trauma to the body. This trauma can be caused by a variety of things, such as a fall, a blow, or a hit. When the blood vessels are damaged, blood leaks into the surrounding tissues, causing the area to become discolored and swollen.

Contusions can occur anywhere on the body, but they are most common in areas that are more likely to be injured, such as the knees, elbows, and hands. In some cases, a contusion may be accompanied by other injuries, such as fractures or sprains.

Most contusions will heal on their own within a few days or weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. Treatment typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to help reduce swelling and pain. In some cases, over-the-counter pain medications may also be recommended to help manage discomfort.

If you suspect that you have a contusion, it's important to seek medical attention if the injury is severe or if you experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. These could be signs of a more serious injury and require immediate medical attention.

Somatosensory evoked potentials (SEPs) are electrical signals generated in the brain and spinal cord in response to the stimulation of peripheral nerves. These responses are recorded and measured to assess the functioning of the somatosensory system, which is responsible for processing sensations such as touch, temperature, vibration, and proprioception (the sense of the position and movement of body parts).

SEPs are typically elicited by applying electrical stimuli to peripheral nerves in the arms or legs. The resulting neural responses are then recorded using electrodes placed on the scalp or other locations on the body. These recordings can provide valuable information about the integrity and function of the nervous system, and are often used in clinical settings to diagnose and monitor conditions such as nerve damage, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological disorders.

SEPs can be further categorized based on the specific type of stimulus used and the location of the recording electrodes. For example, short-latency SEPs (SLSEPs) are those that occur within the first 50 milliseconds after stimulation, and are typically recorded from the scalp over the primary sensory cortex. These responses reflect the earliest stages of sensory processing and can be used to assess the integrity of the peripheral nerves and the ascending sensory pathways in the spinal cord.

In contrast, long-latency SEPs (LLSEPs) occur after 50 milliseconds and are typically recorded from more posterior regions of the scalp over the parietal cortex. These responses reflect later stages of sensory processing and can be used to assess higher-level cognitive functions such as attention, memory, and perception.

Overall, SEPs provide a valuable tool for clinicians and researchers seeking to understand the functioning of the somatosensory system and diagnose or monitor neurological disorders.

Kidney neoplasms refer to abnormal growths or tumors in the kidney tissues that can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). These growths can originate from various types of kidney cells, including the renal tubules, glomeruli, and the renal pelvis.

Malignant kidney neoplasms are also known as kidney cancers, with renal cell carcinoma being the most common type. Benign kidney neoplasms include renal adenomas, oncocytomas, and angiomyolipomas. While benign neoplasms are generally not life-threatening, they can still cause problems if they grow large enough to compromise kidney function or if they undergo malignant transformation.

Early detection and appropriate management of kidney neoplasms are crucial for improving patient outcomes and overall prognosis. Regular medical check-ups, imaging studies, and urinalysis can help in the early identification of these growths, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

The brainstem is the lower part of the brain that connects to the spinal cord. It consists of the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata. The brainstem controls many vital functions such as heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. It also serves as a relay center for sensory and motor information between the cerebral cortex and the rest of the body. Additionally, several cranial nerves originate from the brainstem, including those that control eye movements, facial movements, and hearing.

Spinal curvatures refer to the normal or abnormal curvature patterns of the spine as viewed from the side. The human spine has four distinct curves that form an "S" shape when viewed from the side: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. These natural curves provide strength, flexibility, and balance to the spine, allowing us to stand upright, maintain proper posture, and absorb shock during movement.

Abnormal spinal curvatures are often referred to as spinal deformities and can be classified into two main categories: hyperkyphosis (increased kyphosis) and hyperlordosis (increased lordosis). Examples of such conditions include:

1. Kyphosis: An excessive curvature in the thoracic or sacral regions, leading to a hunchback or rounded appearance. Mild kyphosis is common and usually not problematic, but severe cases can cause pain, breathing difficulties, and neurological issues.
2. Lordosis: An abnormal increase in the curvature of the lumbar or cervical spine, resulting in an exaggerated swayback posture. This can lead to lower back pain, muscle strain, and difficulty maintaining proper balance.
3. Scoliosis: A lateral (side-to-side) spinal curvature that causes the spine to twist and rotate, forming a C or S shape when viewed from behind. Most scoliosis cases are idiopathic (of unknown cause), but they can also be congenital (present at birth) or secondary to other medical conditions.

These abnormal spinal curvatures may require medical intervention, such as physical therapy, bracing, or surgery, depending on the severity and progression of the condition.

Oligodendroglia are a type of neuroglial cell found in the central nervous system (CNS) of vertebrates, including humans. These cells play a crucial role in providing support and insulation to nerve fibers (axons) in the CNS, which includes the brain and spinal cord.

More specifically, oligodendroglia produce a fatty substance called myelin that wraps around axons, forming myelin sheaths. This myelination process helps to increase the speed of electrical impulse transmission (nerve impulses) along the axons, allowing for efficient communication between different neurons.

In addition to their role in myelination, oligodendroglia also contribute to the overall health and maintenance of the CNS by providing essential nutrients and supporting factors to neurons. Dysfunction or damage to oligodendroglia has been implicated in various neurological disorders, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), where demyelination of axons leads to impaired nerve function and neurodegeneration.

The spermatic cord is a fibrous structure that contains the vas deferens, blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatics, which provide passage for these structures between the abdomen and the scrotum in males. It is covered by several layers of protective sheaths, including the internal spermatic fascia, cremasteric fascia, and external spermatic fascia. The spermatic cord allows the testicles to be located outside the body, which helps maintain a cooler temperature for optimal sperm production.

The sciatic nerve is the largest and longest nerve in the human body, running from the lower back through the buttocks and down the legs to the feet. It is formed by the union of the ventral rami (branches) of the L4 to S3 spinal nerves. The sciatic nerve provides motor and sensory innervation to various muscles and skin areas in the lower limbs, including the hamstrings, calf muscles, and the sole of the foot. Sciatic nerve disorders or injuries can result in symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower back, hips, legs, and feet, known as sciatica.

Syringomyelia is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a fluid-filled cavity or cavities (syrinx) within the spinal cord. This syrinx can lead to various symptoms depending on its size and location, which may include pain, muscle weakness, numbness, and stiffness in the neck, back, shoulders, arms, or legs. In some cases, it may also affect bladder and bowel function, sexual performance, and the ability to maintain normal body temperature. Syringomyelia is often associated with Chiari malformation, a condition where the lower part of the brain extends into the spinal canal. However, other conditions such as spinal cord injuries, tumors, or infections may also cause syringomyelia.

A "second primary neoplasm" is a distinct, new cancer or malignancy that develops in a person who has already had a previous cancer. It is not a recurrence or metastasis of the original tumor, but rather an independent cancer that arises in a different location or organ system. The development of second primary neoplasms can be influenced by various factors such as genetic predisposition, environmental exposures, and previous treatments like chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

It is important to note that the definition of "second primary neoplasm" may vary slightly depending on the specific source or context. In general medical usage, it refers to a new, separate cancer; however, in some research or clinical settings, there might be more precise criteria for defining and diagnosing second primary neoplasms.

Muscle spasticity is a motor disorder characterized by an involuntary increase in muscle tone, leading to stiffness and difficulty in moving muscles. It is often seen in people with damage to the brain or spinal cord, such as those with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or spinal cord injuries.

In muscle spasticity, the muscles may contract excessively, causing rigid limbs, awkward movements, and abnormal postures. The severity of muscle spasticity can vary from mild stiffness to severe contractures that limit mobility and function.

Muscle spasticity is caused by an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory signals in the central nervous system, leading to overactivity of the alpha motor neurons that control muscle contraction. This can result in hyperreflexia (overactive reflexes), clonus (rapid, rhythmic muscle contractions), and flexor or extensor spasms.

Effective management of muscle spasticity may involve a combination of physical therapy, medication, surgery, or other interventions to improve function, reduce pain, and prevent complications such as contractures and pressure sores.

Efferent pathways refer to the neural connections that carry signals from the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, to the peripheral effectors such as muscles and glands. These pathways are responsible for the initiation and control of motor responses, as well as regulating various autonomic functions.

Efferent pathways can be divided into two main types:

1. Somatic efferent pathways: These pathways carry signals from the CNS to the skeletal muscles, enabling voluntary movements and postural control. The final common pathway for somatic motor innervation is the alpha-motor neuron, which synapses directly onto skeletal muscle fibers.
2. Autonomic efferent pathways: These pathways regulate the function of internal organs, smooth muscles, and glands. They are further divided into two subtypes: sympathetic and parasympathetic. The sympathetic system is responsible for the 'fight or flight' response, while the parasympathetic system promotes rest and digestion. Both systems use a two-neuron chain to transmit signals from the CNS to the effector organs. The preganglionic neuron has its cell body in the CNS and synapses with the postganglionic neuron in an autonomic ganglion located near the effector organ. The postganglionic neuron then innervates the target organ or tissue.

In summary, efferent pathways are the neural connections that carry signals from the CNS to peripheral effectors, enabling motor responses and regulating various autonomic functions. They can be divided into somatic and autonomic efferent pathways, with further subdivisions within the autonomic system.

Strychnine is a highly toxic, colorless, bitter-tasting crystalline alkaloid that is derived from the seeds of the Strychnos nux-vomica tree, native to India and Southeast Asia. It is primarily used in the manufacture of pesticides and rodenticides due to its high toxicity to insects and mammals.

Medically, strychnine has been used in the past as a stimulant and a treatment for various conditions such as asthma, heart failure, and neurological disorders. However, its use in modern medicine is extremely rare due to its narrow therapeutic index and high toxicity.

Strychnine works by blocking inhibitory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system, leading to increased muscle contractions, stiffness, and convulsions. Ingestion of even small amounts can cause severe symptoms such as muscle spasms, rigidity, seizures, and respiratory failure, which can be fatal if left untreated.

It is important to note that strychnine has no legitimate medical use in humans and its possession and use are highly regulated due to its high toxicity and potential for abuse.

The Cauda Equina refers to a bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord within the vertebral column. It originates from the lumbar (L1-L5) and sacral (S1-S5) regions and looks like a horse's tail, hence the name "Cauda Equina" in Latin. These nerves are responsible for providing motor and sensory innervation to the lower extremities, bladder, bowel, and sexual organs. Any damage or compression to this region can lead to serious neurological deficits, such as bowel and bladder incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and lower limb weakness or paralysis.

Spinal muscular atrophies (SMAs) of childhood are a group of inherited neuromuscular disorders characterized by degeneration and loss of lower motor neurons in the spinal cord, leading to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. The severity and age of onset can vary significantly, with some forms presenting in infancy and others in later childhood or even adulthood.

The most common form of SMA is 5q autosomal recessive SMA, also known as survival motor neuron (SMN) disease, which results from mutations in the SMN1 gene. The severity of this form can range from severe (type I or Werdnig-Hoffmann disease), intermediate (type II or chronic infantile neurodegenerative disorder), to mild (type III or Kugelberg-Welander disease).

Type I SMA is the most severe form, with onset before 6 months of age and rapid progression leading to death within the first two years of life if left untreated. Type II SMA has an onset between 6 and 18 months of age, with affected children never achieving the ability to walk independently. Type III SMA has a later onset, typically after 18 months of age, and is characterized by a slower progression, allowing for the ability to walk unaided, although mobility may be lost over time.

Other forms of childhood-onset SMA include autosomal dominant distal SMA, X-linked SMA, and spinal bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA or Kennedy's disease). These forms have distinct genetic causes and clinical presentations.

In general, SMAs are characterized by muscle weakness, hypotonia, fasciculations, tongue atrophy, and depressed or absent deep tendon reflexes. Respiratory and nutritional support is often required in more severe cases. Recent advances in gene therapy have led to the development of disease-modifying treatments for some forms of SMA.

"Newborn animals" refers to the very young offspring of animals that have recently been born. In medical terminology, newborns are often referred to as "neonates," and they are classified as such from birth until about 28 days of age. During this time period, newborn animals are particularly vulnerable and require close monitoring and care to ensure their survival and healthy development.

The specific needs of newborn animals can vary widely depending on the species, but generally, they require warmth, nutrition, hydration, and protection from harm. In many cases, newborns are unable to regulate their own body temperature or feed themselves, so they rely heavily on their mothers for care and support.

In medical settings, newborn animals may be examined and treated by veterinarians to ensure that they are healthy and receiving the care they need. This can include providing medical interventions such as feeding tubes, antibiotics, or other treatments as needed to address any health issues that arise. Overall, the care and support of newborn animals is an important aspect of animal medicine and conservation efforts.

Surgical decompression is a medical procedure that involves relieving pressure on a nerve or tissue by creating additional space. This is typically accomplished through the removal of a portion of bone or other tissue that is causing the compression. The goal of surgical decompression is to alleviate symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness caused by the compression.

In the context of spinal disorders, surgical decompression is often used to treat conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or bone spurs that are compressing nerves in the spine. The specific procedure used may vary depending on the location and severity of the compression, but common techniques include laminectomy, discectomy, and foraminotomy.

It's important to note that surgical decompression is a significant medical intervention that carries risks such as infection, bleeding, and injury to surrounding tissues. As with any surgery, it should be considered as a last resort after other conservative treatments have been tried and found to be ineffective. A thorough evaluation by a qualified medical professional is necessary to determine whether surgical decompression is appropriate in a given case.

Treatment outcome is a term used to describe the result or effect of medical treatment on a patient's health status. It can be measured in various ways, such as through symptoms improvement, disease remission, reduced disability, improved quality of life, or survival rates. The treatment outcome helps healthcare providers evaluate the effectiveness of a particular treatment plan and make informed decisions about future care. It is also used in clinical research to compare the efficacy of different treatments and improve patient care.

Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) is a type of intermediate filament protein that is primarily found in astrocytes, which are a type of star-shaped glial cells in the central nervous system (CNS). These proteins play an essential role in maintaining the structural integrity and stability of astrocytes. They also participate in various cellular processes such as responding to injury, providing support to neurons, and regulating the extracellular environment.

GFAP is often used as a marker for astrocytic activation or reactivity, which can occur in response to CNS injuries, neuroinflammation, or neurodegenerative diseases. Elevated GFAP levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or blood can indicate astrocyte damage or dysfunction and are associated with several neurological conditions, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and Alexander's disease.

Paraparesis is a medical term that refers to a mild to moderate form of paralysis affecting the lower limbs, specifically the legs. It is characterized by partial loss of strength and mobility, which may result in difficulty walking or maintaining balance. Paraparesis can be caused by various conditions such as spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, spina bifida, or other neurological disorders affecting the spinal cord.

The term "para" means "two," and "paresis" comes from the Greek word "paresis," which means "loosening" or "relaxation." Therefore, paraparesis implies weakness or partial paralysis in two lower extremities. It is important to note that while paraparesis can impact a person's ability to walk and perform daily activities, it does not necessarily lead to complete loss of movement or sensation in the affected limbs.

Proper diagnosis and management of the underlying cause are crucial for improving symptoms and preventing further progression of paraparesis. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, or surgical interventions depending on the specific condition causing the paraparesis.

A spinal fracture, also known as a vertebral compression fracture, is a break in one or more bones (vertebrae) of the spine. This type of fracture often occurs due to weakened bones caused by osteoporosis, but it can also result from trauma such as a car accident or a fall.

In a spinal fracture, the front part of the vertebra collapses, causing the height of the vertebra to decrease, while the back part of the vertebra remains intact. This results in a wedge-shaped deformity of the vertebra. Multiple fractures can lead to a hunched forward posture known as kyphosis or dowager's hump.

Spinal fractures can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, legs, or arms, depending on the location and severity of the fracture. In some cases, spinal cord compression may occur, leading to more severe symptoms such as paralysis or loss of bladder and bowel control.

A wheelchair is defined medically as a mobility aid with wheels, providing the user with increased independence and freedom of movement. It is designed to accommodate individuals who have difficulty walking or are unable to walk due to various reasons such as physical disabilities, illnesses, or injuries. Wheelchairs can be manually propelled by the user or others, or they can be power-driven (motorized). They come in different types and designs, including standard, lightweight, sports, pediatric, bariatric, and reclining wheelchairs, to cater to the diverse needs of users. Some wheelchairs are custom-made to ensure optimal comfort, safety, and functionality for the user.

... s are neoplasms located in either the vertebral column or the spinal cord. There are three main types of spinal ... Spinal cord compression is commonly found in patients with metastatic malignancy. Back pain is a primary symptom of spinal cord ... Spinal cord tumors are classified based on their location within the spinal cord: intradural (intradmedullary and ... "Spinal Cord Tumors: New Views and Future Directions". Neurologic Clinics. Spinal Cord Diseases. 31 (1): 241-268. doi:10.1016/j. ...
Doris Akers, 72, American gospel music composer, arranger and singer, spinal cord neoplasm. Laurindo Almeida, 77, Brazilian ...
Cerebrospinal fluid is tested for high amounts of the hormone β-hCG if the GTN has spread to the brain or spinal cord. Computed ...
There is one other sense of myeloid that means "pertaining to the spinal cord", but it is much less commonly used. Myeloid ... Myeloid neoplasms always concern bone marrow cell lineage and are related to hematopoietic cells. Myeloid tissue can also be ...
... meninges Meningioma 192.2 Spinal cord 192.3 Spinal meninges 193 Malignant neoplasm of thyroid gland 194 Malignant neoplasm of ... 140 Malignant neoplasm of lip 141 Malignant neoplasm of tongue 142 Malignant neoplasm of major salivary glands 143 Malignant ... benign neoplasm of uterus 220 Benign neoplasm of ovary 221 Benign neoplasm of other female genital organs 222 Benign neoplasm ... neoplasm of oropharynx 147 Malignant neoplasm of nasopharynx 148 Malignant neoplasm of hypopharynx 149 Malignant neoplasm of ...
Castel E, Lazennec JY, Chiras J, Enkaoua E, Saillant G (1999). "Acute spinal cord compression due to intraspinal bleeding from ... The consideration of VHs as a neoplasm is disputed, due to limited aggressive histopathological features. As such, some authors ... The deficits in these cases are probably attributable to blood flow disturbances in the spinal cord. Vertebral hemangiomas are ... Highly vascular (cavernous type) hemangiomas can produce neurologic deficits without prominent evidence of spinal cord ...
Of these gliomas are astrocytomas, which is a type of cancer that occurs in the brain or spinal cord. The main role of ... When present in anoxic-ischemic brains, gemistocytes are regularly encountered in glial neoplasms, also known as glioma, which ... is a type of tumor that occurs in the brain and spinal cord. Usually, gliomas begin in the glial cells that surround the nerve ...
... is the study of brain and spinal cord neoplasms, many of which are (at least eventually) very dangerous and life ... 2. Spinal Cord Tumor Presentations Pain is the first symptom in >90% of patients presenting with epidural metastasis and occurs ... Mechanisms of pain include spinal cord ischemia and traction on the periosteum, dura, nearby soft tissues, and nerve roots. ... If other neurologic symptoms suggestive of myelopathy are present, without pain, the clinician should evaluate for spinal cord ...
It is found between the spinal cord (caudally) and the pretectum (cranially). It connects with the superior colliculus, the ... Other demyelinating diseases, as well as certain neoplasms and strokes, can also cause the same symptoms. In 1846, neurologist ... It also carries the descending tectospinal tract and medial vestibulospinal tracts into the cervical spinal cord, and ... a neoplasm, or a stroke. The medial longitudinal fasciculus is an area of crossed over tracts, on each side of the brainstem. ...
... syndrome Ter Haar syndrome Teratocarcinosarcoma Teratoma Testes neoplasm Testotoxicosis Tetanus Tethered spinal cord disease ... mental retardation Thymic carcinoma Thymic epithelial tumor Thymic renal anal lung dysplasia Thymoma Thymus neoplasm ... syndrome Tolosa-Hunt syndrome Toluene antenatal infection Tomaculous neuropathy Tome-Brune-Fardeau syndrome Tongue neoplasm ... Trisomy 14 mosaicism Trisomy 2 mosaicism Trisomy 3 mosaicism Trisomy 6 Trisomy Trochlear dysplasia Trophoblastic Neoplasms ( ...
... may refer to : Ruy Lopez chess openings ECO code Malignant neoplasm of spinal cord, cranial nerves and other parts of ...
... spinal cord and motor neurons retina posterior pituitary Neural plate Neuroectodermal neoplasm Neuroepithelial cell Larsen's ...
They may occur anywhere in the brain, or even in the spinal cord, but are most commonly found in the cerebral hemispheres. As ... because the borders of the neoplasm tend to send out tiny microscopic fibrillary tentacles that spread into the surrounding ...
Spinal cord disorder Spinal cord injury Spinal cord neoplasm Spinal dysostosis type Anhalt Spinal muscular atrophy Spinal ... Spinal muscular atrophy with lower extremity predominance 1 Spinal muscular atrophy with lower extremity predominance 2 Spinal ... Spinal muscular atrophy with progressive myoclonic epilepsy Spinal muscular atrophy with respiratory distress type 1 Spinal ... Sphingolipidosis Spielmeyer-Vogt disease Spina bifida Spina bifida hypospadias Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy Spinal ...
"Tumefactive demyelination of the spinal cord: a case report". Spinal Cord. 53 (12): 877-880. doi:10.1038/sc.2015.52. PMID ... Symptoms also can mimic a neoplasm with symptoms such as headaches, aphasia, and/ or seizures.[13] There are some differences ... because in standard MS it is caused by demyelination or inflammation in the motor areas of the brain or the spinal cord. This ... and decrease in lesion size or detection of new lesions on serial imaging Tumefactive lesions can appear in the spinal cord, ...
... the protective covering of the brain and spinal cord), the spine and/or its overlying tissues. Neuroplastic surgery has adapted ... Immediate Single-Stage Cranioplasty Following Calvarial Resection for Benign and Malignant Skull Neoplasms Using Customized ... Approaches to brain tumors Removal of skull and craniofacial tumors Complex Approaches to the spine and spinal cord Complex ...
... and cord edema. Poorly defined margins may be more suggestive of astrocytoma, while a central location in the spinal cord, ... It is nearly impossible to differentiate ganglioglioma from other more common intramedullary neoplasms based on imaging alone. ... According to a series by Lang et al., reviewing several patients with resected spinal cord ganglioglioma, the 5- and 10-year ... In that study, patients with spinal cord ganglioglioma had a 3.5-fold higher relative risk of tumor recurrence compared to ...
... including the cerebral hemispheres and the spinal cord. These tumors are usually slow growing and benign, corresponding to WHO ... The location could prohibit access to the neoplasm and lead to incomplete or no resection at all. Left unattended, these tumors ... The complaints may vary depending on the location and size of the neoplasm. The most common symptoms are associated with ... surgeons may decide to monitor the neoplasm's evolution and postpone surgical intervention for some time. However, total ...
... central cord syndrome MeSH C21.866.819.678 - spinal cord compression MeSH C21.866.831.600 - spinal fractures MeSH C21.866. ... neoplasms, radiation-induced MeSH C21.866.733.579 - osteoradionecrosis MeSH C21.866.733.720 - radiation injuries, experimental ... spinal injuries MeSH C21.866.117.500.500 - spinal fractures MeSH C21.866.120.126 - blast injuries MeSH C21.866.120.248 - ... spinal fractures MeSH C21.866.404.875 - tibial fractures MeSH C21.866.404.937 - ulna fractures MeSH C21.866.404.937.547 - ...
"Consecutive Histological Changes in an Astroblastoma That Disseminated to the Spinal Cord after Repeated Intracranial ... often mistaking astroblastoma with glial neoplasms, high-grade astrocytes, and embryonal neoplasms. However, the "bubbly" ... even though it is entirely possible for lesions to proliferate toward the spinal cord. An enormous difficulty lies in ... the malignant spread of astroblastoma throughout the body may press against or paralyze the spinal cord, diminishing sensation ...
"Up-regulation of neural stem cell markers suggests the occurrence of dedifferentiation in regenerating spinal cord". ... Misago N, Narisawa Y (September 2006). "Cytokeratin 15 expression in neoplasms with sebaceous differentiation". Journal of ... tracking of transplanted bone marrow and embryonic stem cells labeled by iron oxide nanoparticles in rat brain and spinal cord ... Grskovic B, Pollaschek C, Mueller MM, Stuhlmeier KM (June 2006). "Expression of hyaluronan synthase genes in umbilical cord ...
... and the spinal cord. The tumor is usually gray, well-circumscribed, and takes on the form of the space it occupies. They ... The neoplasms currently referred to as meningiomata were referred to with a wide range of names in older medical literature, ... brain and spinal cord), but have various commonalities. Charles Oberling then separated these into subtypes based on cell ... the membranous layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms depend on the location and occur as a result of the tumor ...
... spinal cord neoplasms MeSH C10.228.854.765.342 - epidural neoplasms MeSH C10.228.854.770 - spinal cord injuries MeSH C10.228. ... spinal cord neoplasms MeSH C10.551.240.750.200 - epidural neoplasms MeSH C10.551.360.500 - optic nerve neoplasms MeSH C10.551. ... spinal cord vascular diseases MeSH C10.228.854.785.100 - anterior spinal artery syndrome MeSH C10.228.854.785.650 - spinal cord ... brain neoplasms MeSH C10.228.140.211.280 - cerebral ventricle neoplasms MeSH C10.228.140.211.280.300 - choroid plexus neoplasms ...
... symptoms of spinal cord malformations; profound or less commonly mild to severe intellectual disability; epileptic seizures; ... can cause various genetic disorders and neoplasms. The sSMC in PKS consists of multiple copies of the short (i.e. "p") arm of ... fibroblasts isolated from the fetus's umbilical cord, and cells isolated from the fetus's umbilical cord blood. PKS can also be ... "Prenatal diagnosis of Pallister-Killian syndrome using cord blood samples". Molecular Cytogenetics. 12: 39. doi:10.1186/s13039- ...
"Spinal Cord Tumors -- Nerve Sheath Tumors (Schwannomas and Neurofibromas)". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2007-08-06. Slomiany MG, Dai ... A nerve sheath tumor is a type of tumor of the nervous system (nervous system neoplasm) which is made up primarily of the ... From benign tumors like schwannoma to high grade malignant neoplasms known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, ... PubMed: 6310227] Carroll S. Molecular mechanisms promoting the pathogenesis of Schwann cell neoplasms. Acta Neuropathol. 2012 ...
Multiple sclerosis Spinal cord lesions Mechanical outlet obstruction Internal intussusception Enterocele Dissipation of force ... Neoplasms / cancer Diverticulitis / Diverticulosis Hernias Inflammatory bowel disease Colonic volvulus (sigmoid, caecal, ... sutures Pseudoobstruction Hernias containing bowel Crohn's disease causing adhesions or inflammatory strictures Neoplasms, ...
The spinocerebellum receives proprioception input from the dorsal columns of the spinal cord (including the spinocerebellar ... and neoplasms. In neonates, hypoxic injury to the cerebellum is fairly common, resulting in neuronal loss and gliosis. Symptoms ... each having distinct connections with the brain and spinal cord. These regions are the vestibulocerebellum, which is ... within the spinocerebellum and receives somatic sensory input from the head and proximal body parts via ascending spinal ...
In addition, lesions may mechanically interfere with the spinal cord or nerve roots, producing neurologic deficits. Pain and ... Osteoblastoma is an uncommon osteoid tissue-forming primary neoplasm of the bone. It has clinical and histologic manifestations ... Spinal lesions can cause painful scoliosis, although this is less common with osteoblastoma than with osteoid osteoma. ... The tumors usually involve the posterior elements, and 17% of spinal osteoblastomas are found in the sacrum. The long tubular ...
It is rare for it to be in the third ventricle or the central canal of the spinal cord. Asymptomatic cases may only need ... including comparative MIB-1 immunohistochemical analysis with other ependymal neoplasms". Archives of Pathology & Laboratory ...
... and spindle cell oncocytoma 11.4 Pituitary adenoma/PitNET 11.5 Pituitary blastoma 12.1 Metastases to the brain and spinal cord ... neoplasms 8.1.1 Meningeal melanocytosis and meningeal melanomatosis 8.2 Circumscribed meningeal melanocytic neoplasms 8.2.1 ... group PFB 1.6.3 Spinal ependymoma 1.6.3.1 Spinal ependymoma, MYCN-amplified 1.6.4 Myxopapillary ependymoma 1.6.5 Subependymoma ...
Primary spinal cord tumors arise from the different elements of the CNS, including neurons, supporting glial cells, and ... Neoplastic disease that involves the spine with spinal cord compression may be devastating. ... encoded search term (Spinal Cord Neoplasms) and Spinal Cord Neoplasms What to Read Next on Medscape ... Primary spinal cord tumors. Primary spinal cord tumors arise from the different elements of the central nervous system (CNS), ...
Primary spinal cord tumors arise from the different elements of the CNS, including neurons, supporting glial cells, and ... Neoplastic disease that involves the spine with spinal cord compression may be devastating. ... encoded search term (Spinal Cord Neoplasms) and Spinal Cord Neoplasms What to Read Next on Medscape ... Traul DE, Shaffrey ME, Schiff D. Part I: spinal-cord neoplasms-intradural neoplasms. Lancet Oncol. 2007 Jan. 8(1):35-45. [QxMD ...
Spinal Cord Compression / pathology * Spinal Cord Compression / therapy* * Spinal Neoplasms / diagnosis* * Spinal Neoplasms / ... Assessment and Management of Patients With Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression: A Multidisciplinary Review J Clin Oncol. 2019 ... Purpose: Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) can be a catastrophic manifestation of advanced cancer that causes ... Spinal Cord Compression / diagnosis* * Spinal Cord Compression / etiology * ...
Spinal tumors are neoplasms located in either the vertebral column or the spinal cord. There are three main types of spinal ... Spinal cord compression is commonly found in patients with metastatic malignancy. Back pain is a primary symptom of spinal cord ... Spinal cord tumors are classified based on their location within the spinal cord: intradural (intradmedullary and ... "Spinal Cord Tumors: New Views and Future Directions". Neurologic Clinics. Spinal Cord Diseases. 31 (1): 241-268. doi:10.1016/j. ...
... as well as significant spinal cord compression. Mrs A was transferred to Hospital 2 and underwent spinal stabilisation surgery. ... "Impression: Interval vertebral body osteolysis/collapse suggesting neoplasm. Possible L1 lesion. Infection is a diagnosis ... as well as significant spinal cord compression. Mrs A was transferred to Hospital 2 and underwent spinal stabilisation surgery. ... The MRI showed a large soft tissue mass with almost complete destruction of L2 and significant spinal cord compression.. ...
40 and 43 in the spinal cord (SC), as a potential explanation for sex differences in stress-related chronic pain conditions. ... I. Bočina); the PhD programme "Biology of Neoplasms" School of Medicine, University of Split; the Croatian Scientific ... in the rat spinal cord. (a-h) Dorsal horn; (i) central canal (CC). Thoracic segments of the spinal cord were stained for Cx37 ( ... in the rat spinal cord. (a-h) Dorsal horn; (i) central canal (CC). Thoracic segments of the spinal cord were stained for Cx37 ( ...
Expert centre for rare neoplasms of the brain and spinal cord - Leuven Cancer Institute - University Hospitals Leuven ... Expert centre for rare neoplasms of the male genital organs and of the urinary tract - Leuven Cancer Institute - University ... Expert centre for rare neoplasms of the female genital organs and placenta - Leuven Cancer Institute - University Hospitals ... Expert centre for rare neoplasms of the digestive tract - Leuven Cancer Institute - University Hospitals Leuven ...
Information about the SNOMED CT code 372062007 representing Malignant neoplasm of central nervous system. ... Malignant tumor of spinal cord 363475005. *Metastatic malignant neoplasm to central nervous system 94243009 ... Neoplasm of nervous system 126950007. Malignant neoplasm of nervous system 372063002. Malignant neoplasm of central nervous ... Neoplasm of central nervous system 126951006. Malignant neoplasm of central nervous system 372062007. SNOMED CT Concept ...
Turcot syndrome: A case with spinal cord and colonic neoplasms. AJR 1984; 142: 475-6. ... Hamoudi AB, Ertel I, Newton WA Jr, Reiner CB, Clatworthy W. Multiple neoplasms in adolescent child associated with IGA ...
... of traumatic spinal cord injuries).. *Neoplasm, especially an extra-axial lesion which is compressing the spinal cord (e.g., ... Neck hyperextension cervical spinal cord injury (spinal cord contusion).. *Syrinx (dilation of the central canal of the spinal ... defining the level of a spinal cord lesion. *Sensory spinal cord level: *Light touch is perceived by both the spinothalamic ... The cauda equina is composed of nerve roots L2-L5 and S1-S5, which exit the spinal cord below the end of the spinal cord ( ...
The neurosurgery team assesses and decide if surgery is needed, for neoplasms originating in the brain / spinal cord. Some ...
Information about the SNOMED CT code 94767002 representing Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain. ... Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain and spinal cord 189484008. Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain 94767002. SNOMED CT ... Neoplasm of head 126631009. Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of head 94864000. Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain 94767002. ... Neoplasm of brain 126952004. Neoplasm of uncertain behavior of brain 94767002. SNOMED CT Concept 138875005. Clinical finding ...
In 1 patient who underwent surgery for spinal cord neoplasm, the procedure excluded arachnoiditis. In the other 3 patients with ... One patient developed progressive paraparesis after spinal cord tumor resection; another patient presented with complex midline ... could be excluded as causative of symptoms in a young patient who had previously undergone surgery for spinal cord ependymoma ( ... Paramagnetic contrast agents in the evaluation of brain neoplasms. Top Magn Reson Imaging 1989;1:79-93. ...
Oropharyngeal Neoplasms / virology * Pain Threshold * Papillomaviridae / pathogenicity * Signal Transduction * Spinal Cord / ... Spinal and circulating IL-1β levels are significantly elevated in tumor-bearing mice. Blocking IL-1 signaling either by ...
Patients with focal spinal, root, or cord symptoms should undergo MRI of the spine with and without contrast to localize the ... PCNSL is now known to be a form of extranodal, high-grade non-Hodgkin B-cell neoplasm, usually large cell or immunoblastic type ... Spinal cord involvement in primary CNS lymphoma. J Clin Neurosci. 2018 Jan. 47:145-148. [QxMD MEDLINE Link]. ... It originates in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid, spinal cord, or eyes. It typically remains confined to the central nervous ...
Rarely, undiagnosed leukemia occurs initially manifesting with paralysis to spinal cord GS. We present a case report of 20-year ... Occasionally, an extramedullary neoplasm composed from myelocytic precursor cells occurs in patients without evidence of ...
Our lab is currently working on understanding the extreme responders and extreme clinical phenotypes of brain and spinal cord ... We have shown that each colon neoplasm arises from a clonal expansion of one transformed cell. This expansion gives rise to a ... central nervous system neoplasms. We are interested in exploiting genetic changes for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes ...
... ... OBJECTIVES: Spinal deformity is a common development after laminectomy and resection of pediatric intramedullary spinal cord ... "The role of concurrent fusion to prevent spinal deformity after intramedullary spinal cord tumor excision in children." J ... "The role of concurrent fusion to prevent spinal deformity after intramedullary spinal cord tumor excision in children." J ...
One patient had bone pain and spinal cord compression §One patient had myocardial infarction and tumour fl are.**One patient had ... pyrexia and malignant neoplasm. When a serious adverse event was reported more then once by the same patient, the ...
Sites for clinically significant hemangiomas: skull, vertebrae (causing spinal cord compression), jaw; occur in marrow ... May actually be vascular malformations, not neoplasms * Multiple bony hemangiomas more common in children, associated with ... Epithelioid cells line well formed vessels, but may also grow in sheets and cords; nuclei are grooved, vesicular, may have ...
Brain and Spinal Cord Tumors. There are different types of brain and spinal cord tumors. These tumors are named based on the ... Our page on multiple myeloma and other plasma cell neoplasms has more information. ... Our page on brain and spinal cord tumors has more information.. Other Types of Tumors. Germ Cell Tumors. Germ cell tumors are a ...
Information on Spinal Neoplasms with there causes, symptoms and treatment ... A spinal neoplasm is anyone of many tumor types that are similar to intracranial tumors and involve the spinal cord or its ... Primary spinal cord tumors may be extramedullary (occurring outside the spinal cord) or intramedullary (occurring within the ... Primary spinal neoplasms originate in the meningeal coverings, the parenchyma of the cord or its roots, the intraspinal ...
Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury. 35. Cerebral Palsy. 36. Epilepsy. 37. Headache. 38. Vestibular Disorders ... Central Nervous System Neoplasms. 31. Degenerative Diseases of the Central Nervous System ...
A case of fatal myeloencephalopathy (inflammation of the spinal chord and brain) secondary to accidental intrathecal ... Using conventional therapy, overall, there was a 5.4-fold excess of second neoplasms (cancers) Significantly elevated risks ... Allen JC: Complications of chemotherapy in patients with brain and spinal cord tumors. Pediatr Neurosurg 1991-92; 17(4): 218-24 ... After a clean MRI on January 4th, Alexander had a spinal tap. A day later Alexander complained of pain in his head and back and ...
... and related tumors are derived from primordial neural crest cells that migrate from the mantle layer of the spinal cord and ... GERM CELL NEOPLASMS. Germ cell neoplasms are common in pediatric and young adults. They may arise from the gonads, but could ... Neoplasm. Keratin. S100. LCA. CD99. Desmin. Myogenin. WT1. Other stains. Small cell carcinoma. +. -. -. -. -. -. -. ... Common non-epithelial neoplasms that may cause malignant effusions include malignant melanoma, sarcomas, and other neoplasms ...
Spinal metastases may result in focal findings at a spinal cord level or nerve root pain. Infants with medulloblastoma may ... The neoplasm can also invade adjacent brainstem structures, including the cardiorespiratory centers of the fourth ventricular ... of the subarachnoid space and to nodular growths along the spinal cord or even ventricular surfaces. A smaller proportion of ... 1] These masses are highly cellular neoplasms composed of cells with small- to medium-sized, hyperchromatic nuclei and little ...
Scoco, A., Javed, K. & Yassari, R., Dec 2023, In: Spinal cord series and cases. 9, 1, 35.. Research output: Contribution to ... Separation surgery for metastatic epidural spinal cord compression: comparison of a minimally invasive versus open approach. ... Minimally Invasive Tubular Separation Surgery for Metastatic Spinal Cord Compression: 2-Dimensional Operative Video. De la ... Spinal Epidural Abscess: A Review of Presentation,Management, and Medicolegal Implications. Sharfman, Z. T., Gelfand, Y., Shah ...
Sansur CA, Pouratian N, Dumont AS, Schiff D, Shaffrey CI, Shaffrey ME.Spinal Cord Neoplasms, Part II: Primary tumors of the ... Slavin J, Beaty N, Raghavan P, Sansur C, Aarabi B. Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Evaluate Cervical Spinal Cord Injury from ... I see a large volume of patients with spinal deformity, degenerative disease, spinal oncology and spine trauma. I frequently ... Pathophysiology of primary spinal syringomyelia. J Neurosurg Spine. 2012 Nov; 17(5):360-80. ...
  • The diagnosis is challenging, primarily because symptoms often mimic more common and benign degenerative spinal diseases. (wikipedia.org)
  • Heterotopic ossification has also been observed in non-traumatic conditions (e.g., infections of the central nervous system, peripheral neuropathy, tetanus, biliary cirrhosis, Peyronie's disease, as well as in association with a variety of benign and malignant neoplasms). (nih.gov)
  • Neoplasms of the brain and spinal cord derived from glial cells which vary from histologically benign forms to highly anaplastic and malignant tumors. (embl.de)
  • 1. A benign, slowly growing, cerebellar neoplasm composed of capillary-forming endothelial cells. (wordinfo.info)
  • 2. A benign blood vessel tumor of the cerebellum, spinal cord, or retina, consisting of proliferated blood vessel cells and angioblasts. (wordinfo.info)
  • Malignant neoplasms show a greater degree of anaplasia and have the properties of invasion and metastasis, compared to benign neoplasms . (lookformedical.com)
  • Findings from a 51-year-old immunocompetent woman with a benign neoplasm and Cryptosporidium baileyi pulmonary infection, Poland, 2015. (cdc.gov)
  • Anatomically, neoplasms of the spinal cord may be classified according to the compartment of origin, either intramedullary (inside the cord) or extramedullary (outside the cord). (medscape.com)
  • There are three main types of spinal tumors classified based on their location: extradural and intradural (intradural-intramedullary and intradural-extramedullary). (wikipedia.org)
  • Intradural-intramedullary tumors are located within the dura and spinal cord parenchyma, while intradural-extramedullary tumors are located within the dura but outside the spinal cord parenchyma. (wikipedia.org)
  • Spinal cord tumors are classified based on their location within the spinal cord: intradural (intradmedullary and extramedullary) and extradural tumors. (wikipedia.org)
  • Intradural-extramedullary tumors are located within the dura but outside of the spinal cord parenchyma, with the most common being meningiomas and nerve sheath tumors (e.g. schwannomas, neurofibromas). (wikipedia.org)
  • Occasionally, an extramedullary neoplasm composed from myelocytic precursor cells occurs in patients without evidence of leukemia. (nel.edu)
  • Primary spinal cord tumors may be extramedullary (occurring outside the spinal cord) or intramedullary (occurring within the cord itself). (health-care-clinic.org)
  • Extramedullary tumors may be intradural (meningiomas and schwannomas), which account for 60% of all primary spinal cord neoplasms, or extradural (metastatic tumors from breasts, lungs, prostate, leukemia, or lymphomas), which account for 25% of these neoplasms. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • Because intramedullary tumors may extend over several spinal cord segments, their symptoms are more variable than those of extramedullary tumors. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • Intradural extramedullary spinal neoplasms: Radiologic-pathologic correlation. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Metastatic spinal cord compression is due to invading lesion(s) in the epidural space, between the vertebral bones and the dura of the thecal sac, compressing the thecal sac, spinal cord, or cauda equina. (medscape.com)
  • An X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging undertaken on 31 Month9 identified an L2 lytic lesion, as well as significant spinal cord compression. (hdc.org.nz)
  • Evaluating for a sensory level using a pin to detect pain sensation is more sensitive to detect a spinal level originating from a lesion in the spinothalamic tract. (emcrit.org)
  • Motor weakness may be used to evaluate the level of a spinal lesion that involves the corticospinal tract. (emcrit.org)
  • Thus, a central spinal cord lesion may cause neurologic deficits in a descending order. (emcrit.org)
  • In addition to confirming the spinal injury, a solitary pulmonary nodule (SPN), 1.3-1.8 cm, in the third segment of the right lung upper lobe was detected by chest radiography and computed tomography ( Figure , panels A, B). The lesion was of high density and had well-defined borders. (cdc.gov)
  • Intradural-intramedullary tumors are located within the spinal cord itself, with the most common being ependymomas, astrocytomas, and hemangioblastomas. (wikipedia.org)
  • Case Description: We present an illustrative case of a 47-year-old female with metastatic lesions to the lumbosacral vertebrae years after the initial diagnosis of an intradural, intramedullary spinal cord tumor (IMSCT). (bvsalud.org)
  • Both intradural and extradural tumors exert their effects by compressing the spinal cord and its roots, rather than by invading the parenchyma. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Scholars@Duke publication: The role of concurrent fusion to prevent spinal deformity after intramedullary spinal cord tumor excision in children. (duke.edu)
  • Of these, 52 patients with a biopsy-proven intramedullary spinal cord tumor had complete clinical records and radiographic data. (duke.edu)
  • Infrequently, tumors may induce cavitation within the spinal cord. (medscape.com)
  • Less frequently, tumors may induce cyst formation or cavitation within the spinal cord. (medscape.com)
  • Neoplastic disease can cause neurologic symptoms by compression of the thecal sac, spinal cord, or cauda equina, as well as compression of the attendant vascular supply, which results in cord edema and ischemia. (medscape.com)
  • Additionally, neoplasms may compromise the vascular supply, causing edema or ischemia. (medscape.com)
  • The symptoms of spinal tumors are often non-specific, resulting in a delay in diagnosis. (wikipedia.org)
  • The first step towards diagnosis and therapy is recognizing that the patient has some sort of spinal cord pathology. (emcrit.org)
  • Myelopathy is a clinical diagnosis with localization of the neurological findings to the spinal cord, rather than the brain or the peripheral nervous system, and then to a particular segment of the spinal cord. (bvsalud.org)
  • Neoplastic disease that involves the spine and results in spinal cord or cauda equina compression may have devastating neurologic and functional consequences. (medscape.com)
  • Metastatic lesions are responsible for about 85% of neoplastic spinal cord compression cases, with the other 15% due to primary neoplastic lesions of the spine. (medscape.com)
  • Neoplastic disease that involves the spine with spinal cord compression may be devastating. (medscape.com)
  • Consequent signs and symptoms may be referable to the spine or spinal cord. (medscape.com)
  • Note that the spinal cord level doesn't line up precisely with the corresponding vertebrae, especially caudal to the thoracic spine. (emcrit.org)
  • Lhermitte's sign (an electric-shock sensation elicited by neck flexion that runs down the spine and sometimes into the limbs) suggests involvement of the posterior columns of the cervical spinal cord. (emcrit.org)
  • As the director of Spine Surgery for the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Maryland, I see a large volume of patients with spinal deformity, degenerative disease, spinal oncology and spine trauma. (umaryland.edu)
  • Sansur CA , Pouratian N, Dumont AS, Schiff D, Shaffrey CI, Shaffrey ME.Spinal Cord Neoplasms, Part II: Primary tumors of the bony spine and adjacent soft tissues. (umaryland.edu)
  • Metastases to the substance of the cord (intramedullary) are relatively rare. (medscape.com)
  • Spinal metastases may result in focal findings at a spinal cord level or nerve root pain. (medscape.com)
  • Abnormal growths of tissue that follow a previous neoplasm but are not metastases of the latter. (lookformedical.com)
  • Doug gave me more details on the upcoming book in a recent email: "The book is divided into four parts: I Neoplasms, II Non-neoplastic Mass Lesions, III Biopsies for non-neoplastic diseases not presenting as a mass, and IV Epilepsy Pathology. (blogspot.com)
  • Common primary cancers in metastatic spinal tumors includes breast, prostate, lung, and kidney cancer. (wikipedia.org)
  • Figure 1 T2 weighted sagittal magnetic resonance image showing increased signal within the whole spinal cord and medulla oblongata mg/dL is the normal range for cerebrospinal fluid protein in our laboratory) and glu- cose content was 58 mg/dL (simultane- ous blood sugar 90 mg/dL). (who.int)
  • Children may present with spinal deformities such as scoliosis. (wikipedia.org)
  • Leptomeningeal metastasis presents as multifocal neurological deficits referable to the spinal cord. (medscape.com)
  • Primary spinal cord tumors arise from the different elements of the central nervous system (CNS), including neurons, supporting glial cells, and meninges. (medscape.com)
  • Primary spinal cord tumors arise from the different elements of the CNS, including neurons, supporting glial cells, and meninges. (medscape.com)
  • Most primary spinal cord cancers do not disseminate widely through the CNS or body. (medscape.com)
  • however, the metastasis of primary spinal cord tumors to other regions in the body is an infrequent occurrence. (bvsalud.org)
  • A few case reports have described the metastasis of primary spinal cord tumors, and in most cases, patients were younger than 30 years of age. (bvsalud.org)
  • Metastatic lesions are featured in this discussion since they cause 85% of the cases of neoplastic spinal cord compression. (medscape.com)
  • Metastatic tumors that cause epidural cord compression and dysfunction are the most common causes of oncologic CNS injury. (medscape.com)
  • Most symptoms from spinal tumors occur due to compression of the spinal cord as it plays a primary role in motor and sensory function. (wikipedia.org)
  • Myelopathy can be the result of primary intrinsic disorders of the spinal cord or from secondary conditions, which result in extrinsic compression of the spinal cord. (bvsalud.org)
  • Our lab is currently working on understanding the extreme responders and extreme clinical phenotypes of brain and spinal cord tumors to identify factors that may modulate responses to therapy. (hopkinsmedicine.org)
  • Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of etidronate disodium in heterotopic ossification following total hip replacement or due to spinal cord injury. (nih.gov)
  • Tumors of the spinal cord or near the sciatic or femoral plexus can cause neural compression and clinical signs similar to those of disc herniation. (tau.ac.il)
  • We performed a blinded, retrospective study of 38 ALS patients, examining the association between pathologic measures in motor cortex, hypoglossal nucleus, and lumbar cord with clinical data, including progression rate and disease duration, site of symptom onset, and upper and lower motor neuron signs. (bvsalud.org)
  • In a patient with metastatic carcinoma or lymphoma who suddenly experiences complete transverse myelitis with spinal shock, functional improvement is unlikely, even with treatment, and his outlook is ominous. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • Metastatic lesions that involve the spinal cord affect about 5-10% of patients with cancer. (medscape.com)
  • A spinal neoplasm is anyone of many tumor types that are similar to intracranial tumors and involve the spinal cord or its roots. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • [ 3 ] Approximately 15% of all primary CNS lesions arise from the spinal cord, with an estimated incidence rate of 0.5-2.5 cases per 100,000 population. (medscape.com)
  • Thus, diseases affecting the anterior horn of the spinal cord cause flaccid paralysis. (emcrit.org)
  • Baclofen is a prescription medication used to alleviate signs and symptoms of muscle spasms caused by multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injuries and other spinal cord diseases. (rxwiki.com)
  • In 1 patient who underwent surgery for spinal cord neoplasm, the procedure excluded arachnoiditis. (ajnr.org)
  • Mrs A was transferred to Hospital 2 on 1 Month10, where she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and underwent spinal stabilisation surgery. (hdc.org.nz)
  • Our objective is to compare the occurrence of postlaminectomy spinal deformity in children with intramedullary spinal cord tumors that underwent decompression with fusion at the time of surgery to those that did not undergo fusion. (duke.edu)
  • Most extradural tumors invade and destroy bone before compressing the spinal cord. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Additionally, cancers that metastasize to the vertebrae or surrounding tissues frequently cause spinal cord compression. (medscape.com)
  • Symptoms can include progressive back pain and neurologic deficits referable to the spinal cord or spinal nerve roots. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Most primary intramedullary spinal cord tumors are astrocytomas or ependymomas . (medscape.com)
  • Baclofen is a prescription medication used to relieve spasms and increased muscle tone caused by multiple sclerosis or spinal injury. (rxwiki.com)
  • Other common symptoms of spinal cord compression include muscle weakness, sensory loss, numbness in hands and legs, and rapid onset paralysis. (wikipedia.org)
  • Rarely, undiagnosed leukemia occurs initially manifesting with paralysis to spinal cord GS. (nel.edu)
  • For the emergency physician, however, the cell origin of the tumor is less of a concern than the consequent syndromes of spinal cord dysfunction. (medscape.com)
  • The severity of spinal cord compromise secondary to a tumor spans a wide range. (medscape.com)
  • Primary spinal neoplasms originate in the meningeal coverings, the parenchyma of the cord or its roots, the intraspinal vasculature, or the vertebrae. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • The spinal cord is surrounded by three layers known as the spinal meninges. (wikipedia.org)
  • This neoplasm may present with renal signs and symptoms, such as hypertension, hematuria and abdominal pain. (aafp.org)
  • Сиринкс спинного або стовбура головного мозку A syrinx is a fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord (syringomyelia) or brain stem (syringobulbia). (msdmanuals.com)
  • Common non-epithelial neoplasms that may cause malignant effusions include malignant melanoma, sarcomas, and other neoplasms including germ cell tumors [ Figure 1 ]. (cytojournal.com)
  • Spinal tumors may develop within the spinal cord parenchyma, directly destroying tissue, or outside the cord parenchyma, often compressing the cord or nerve roots. (msdmanuals.com)
  • Intramedullary tumors infiltrate the parenchyma and expand rather than displace the spinal cord. (msdmanuals.com)
  • The previously mentioned tendency of medulloblastoma to spread via CSF pathways can lead to diffuse "sugar coating" of the subarachnoid space and to nodular growths along the spinal cord or even ventricular surfaces. (medscape.com)
  • Spinal nerve compression and weakening of the vertebral structure cause the symptoms. (wikipedia.org)
  • If the tumor is slowly progressive, or If it's treated before the cord degenerates from compression, symptoms are likely to disappear, and complete restoration of function is possible. (health-care-clinic.org)
  • A spinal tumor often presents with signs and symptoms of spinal cord compression. (aafp.org)
  • Primary spinal tumors are associated with a few genetic syndromes. (wikipedia.org)
  • The development of the second neoplasm may or may not be related to the treatment for the previous neoplasm since genetic risk or predisposing factors may actually be the cause. (lookformedical.com)
  • While most tumors metastatic to the serous membranes are of epithelial origin, cytologists should be aware that non-epithelial neoplasms can also cause malignant effusions including sarcomas, melanomas, germ cell tumors, and, more rarely, brain tumors. (cytojournal.com)
  • OBJECTIVES: Spinal deformity is a common development after laminectomy and resection of pediatric intramedullary spinal cord tumors. (duke.edu)
  • Preoperative spinal alignment, surgical treatment, postoperative deformity, and risk factors for deformity were evaluated. (duke.edu)
  • CONCLUSIONS: In the surgical treatment of patients with intramedullary spinal cord tumors, those that undergo instrumentation or in situ fusion at the time of spinal cord tumor excision are significantly less likely to develop postresection spinal deformity. (duke.edu)
  • Ability of neoplasms to infiltrate and actively destroy surrounding tissue. (lookformedical.com)