[Clinical picture and early diagnosis of craniospinal tumors]

The authors analyzed 32 cases of verified craniospinal tumors (CST) which were observed at a neurosurgical department over the last decade. These tumors were subdivided into neurinomas (n = 14), meningiomas (n = 11) and gliomas (n = 7). All patients underwent surgery. The pathogenesis of symptoms observed in CST is discussed. Clinical symptoms of importance for the early diagnosis of craniospinal tumors are outlined. When CST is suspected the recommended procedures include analysis of the CSF, X-ray examination of the cervical portion of the vertebral column, ascending positive myelography and computer-aided tomography of the cranium and vertebral column.