Spinocellular carcinoma is a rare and aggressive disease that affects the spinal cord and nerve roots. This is a malignant tumor that develops from the cells that make up the meninges (the membranes surrounding the spinal cord) and the spinal roots (nerve endings that come out of the spinal cord).
Spinocellular cancer can occur at any age, but is most common in people over 50 years of age. Symptoms of spinocellular cancer may include back pain, numbness or weakness in the legs or arms, and problems urinating or bowel movements.
Various tests are performed to diagnose spinocellular cancer, including MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography). Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. The prognosis for spinocellular cancer depends on the stage of the disease and the effectiveness of treatment.