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Primary osseous spinal tumors are relatively rare in comparison with metastatic disease, myeloma, and lymphoma. Despite their rarity, the interpreting radiologist must be aware of the typical imaging features to provide appropriate diagnosis for guidance of clinical management. The age of occurrence, distribution longitudinally in the spine, and distribution axially within the vertebra combined with typical imaging appearances can help indicate the correct diagnosis. This article reviews the diagnostic features of benign and malignant primary bone spinal tumors., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Pediatric spine tumors encompass a diverse group of pathologic diagnoses that differ markedly based on the location and age of the child. Children can be affected by primary and metastatic tumors, making the differential diagnosis and treatment options extensive. This article discusses the features of spinal tumors in children based primarily on location: extradural, intradural-extramedullary, and intramedullary tumors. Because this article deals with such a broad topic, detailed descriptions and outcomes of surgical and nonsurgical treatments for each particular tumor are limited. Rather, the key clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic features of each tumor are discussed.

In children, tumors of the spine are much rarer than intracranial tumors. They are classified into intramedullary, intradural-extramedullary, and extradural tumors. Magnetic resonance imaging provides crucial information regarding the extent, location, and internal structure of the mass, thus critically narrowing the differential diagnosis and guiding surgery.