Intraspinal tumours in the first two decades of life. Clinical and radiological features

Twenty-eight patients with spinal tumours (11 malignant and 17 benign) detected in their first two decades of life have been reviewed. Twenty-six of the 28 patients had neurological disturbances, and a significant difference in the duration of debut symptoms in the benign and malignant groups could be demonstrated. X-ray survey was positive in 11 cases in the benign group and in three cases in the malignant group.