[Tumor in the region of foramen magnum]

Twenty-five patients with tumors in the region of foramen magnum confirmed by pathology and surgery are presented. There were 19 males and 6 females. The ages ranged from 4-56 years. According to the clinical findings, the authors suggest that if a patient has occipitocervical pain or headache accompanied with neurological signs of medulla, cervical spinal cord or lower cranial nerves, tumors in the region of foramen magnum should be considered. The authors emphasize that a total removal of the extramedullary tumor is the best choice. The initial symptoms and signs, cases misdiagnosed and surgical treatment of this tumor are discussed.