Spinal Tumors and Tumor-like Masses: Relevance of Initial Imaging, Karnofsky Performance Status, Age, Location, and Cord Edema

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to know the relevance of initial imaging, Karnofsky performance status,age,location and cord edema for future score development for radiologists. METHODS: The present study was carried out on total of 32 patients who visited SRN Hospital and Kriti scanning centre between August 2009 to February 2019. General and systemic examination was done. Finally KPS score was given to each patient in accordance with their clinical status. Magnetic resonance imaging was contemplated using scanner – Magnetom SP Vision; Siemens –Supercon 1.0 Tesla system. RESULTS: The morphologic characterization and specific assessment of various tumors and tumor like masses of spine in view of MR imaging features and their relationship with clinical features have been analyzed with Chi square test which reveal: Age versus location – χ(2) = 4.32; df = 4; P > 0.36 (NS), age versus cord edema – χ(2) = 4.27; df = 3; P > 0.23 (NS), and location versus cord edema – χ(2) = 2.67; df = 2; P > 0.26 (NS). Chi Square test shows there is no any statistically significant association between age and location; age and spinal cord edema, and location and spinal cord edema. Correlation between clinical aggressiveness (change in follow-up KPS) and MR imaging features could not be assessed in our study because majority of patients could not be evaluated after one month because of loss of follow-up. CONCLUSION: Poor KPS itself lead to movement during MRI and movement related artifacts affecting initial imaging,which was managed by cotton padded neck strap. KPS depends only on general condition one of the factor for outcome so for future score development age,location and cord edema together may be useful.