However, in certain patient populations and in certain clinical scenarios, the diagnosis must be ruled out. You do not necessarily have a tumor or infection of the spine, however you should see a physician who can perform a thorough history of your pain and a complete physical examination. These patients usually require more clinical testing than patients who do not meet the above criteria at the time of the first office visit. As previously stated, please visit with your physician, who will be able to more clearly assess your situation after obtaining a thorough history of your pain and performing a physical examination. While an individual s clinical situation may alert the physician to the possibility of a tumor or infection of the spine, the diagnosis is made through a number of tests.
Laboratory tests are extremely useful.
A bone scan helps to define the area of interest if it is not clear on x-rays. An MRI is an excellent test that, with the help of contrast dyes, can help to define an area of the spine as normal, degenerative, affected by infection, or affected by tumor. The more tissue sampled, the more likely the diagnosis can accurately be made. If a needle biopsy is not helpful in making the diagnosis, a surgical biopsy may need to be performed. In cases of infection, the first goal is to identify the offending organism.