Primary Osseous Spine Tumors in Adults: A Review and Update on Diagnosis and Treatment

Objective: This article aims to provide a convenient and comprehensive review describing unique features of the most common primary osseous spine tumors, as well as current diagnostic and therapeutic modalities for each tumor. Background: Primary osseous spine tumors are a rare and diverse group of neoplasms with varying biologic behavior. Clinical, radiographic, and pathologic correlation is critical in making a correct diagnosis. Prompt treatment is necessary to optimize clinical outcomes, and is based on tumor type, location, and disease stage. Most patients with spinal tumors present with a history of pain often similar in quality and intensity as non-tumoral etiologies of back pain. Spinal neoplasms, especially malignant tumors, require a multidisciplinary approach and are best treated in dedicated cancer centers to mitigate incorrect diagnoses and inappropriate treatment. Methods: A literature review was conducted using PubMed and EBSCO. Multiple search queries for relevant articles between 2014 to present were included. Preference was given to recent articles with clinical evidence, current treatment, diagnostic modalities and/or future potential therapies and diagnostic strategies. Results: Numerous modalities including surgery, chemotherapy, evolving immunologic and targeted therapies as well as stereotactic external beam radiation therapy are utilized to optimize care. Still, current therapeutic strategies result in significant morbidity and mortality and local disease recurrence and systemic relapse are common despite chemotherapy and advanced surgical techniques. Conclusion: Because primary spinal tumors are uncommon, level I and II data are scarce though novel treatment strategies are emerging. Medical and orthopaedic oncologists and spine surgeons therefore should have a fundamental knowledge of the current state of literature pertaining to this topic.