Malignant osseous tumors of the pediatric spine

Abstract

In the pediatric population, malignant osseous tumors of the spine include osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, lymphoma, and metastatic neuroblastoma. Although these tumors are rare, prompt diagnosis and recognition are critical to the overall prognosis. Improved understanding of the natural history of spine deformity, combined with advances in imaging, surgical technology, radiation therapy, and chemotherapeutic regimens, has improved survival rates and decreased rates of local recurrence-especially recurrence of low-grade lesions. Prognosis for patients with high-grade lesions with distant metastasis on presentation remains exceedingly poor. Recognition of these spine tumors and prompt referral to a tertiary care center that specializes in oncology can optimize patient outcomes.