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Julie McKenzie53-year-old British woman found with tumour in her coccyx
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- A Gruesome Discovery: Julie's Tale of Tailbone Tumor
- Misdiagnosis and Medical Intervention
- A Tumor in Her Tailbone
- The Importance of Early Diagnosis
- Types of Spinal Tumors
- Chordoma: A Rare and Aggressive Tumor
- Julie's Decision and Surgery
- Post-Surgery Recovery
- Conclusion
A Gruesome Discovery: Julie's Tale of Tailbone Tumor
The Beginning of Julie's PainIn 2013, 53-year-old Julie MacKenzie's life took an unexpected turn when she developed persistent back pain after gardening. Despite hot baths and over-the-counter pain relievers, her agony intensified.
Misdiagnosis and Medical Intervention
Julie's initial diagnosis from her GP was a minor spinal curvature, commonly known as scoliosis. A subsequent MRI revealed scoliosis, some disc degeneration, and an enlarged tailbone, prompting further investigation.
A Tumor in Her Tailbone
The MRI revealed a tumor in Julie's tailbone. She was offered two options: remove the entire tailbone or monitor the tumor with regular scans.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Neurosurgeon Peter Hamlin emphasized the need for early specialist referral for persistent back pain, as it could potentially indicate an underlying medical condition. Spine surgeon Robert Lee added that unidentified spinal tumors may be overlooked due to common muscle strains.
Types of Spinal Tumors
Approximately 1000 people in the UK are diagnosed with a spinal tumor each year. Most are benign, arising from a type of embryonic tissue called notochord. Malignant tumors, such as chordomas, are rarer and occur primarily in adults.
Chordoma: A Rare and Aggressive Tumor
Chordomas often go undetected until they cause significant symptoms due to their late-stage presentation. They tend to affect individuals between 40-70 years of age, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is six years.
Julie's Decision and Surgery
Unable to determine if Julie's tumor was benign or malignant, Dr. Lee recommended removing her tailbone, which was not an essential body part. In October 2013, the tailbone and the 2 cm tumor were successfully removed.
Post-Surgery Recovery
Julie experienced difficulty sitting for a period after surgery and was unable to return to work for six weeks. She developed a 3-inch scar and requires yearly follow-up appointments for the next five years.
Conclusion
Julie is grateful for her early intervention and emphasizes the importance of seeking medical attention for persistent back pain. Her story highlights the critical need for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment to manage spinal tumors effectively.
