The gross classification of tumors based on anatomic location can be divided into 3 discrete areas.

First are extradural tumors and masses, which localize to the area between the bony structures and the dura.

Next are intradural masses and tumors, which are subdivided into extramedullary and intramedullary.

see Pediatric spinal cord tumor.

Extramedullary refers to the area within the dura but not part of the spinal cord and intramedullary is within the spinal cord parenchyma. Different types of tumors and masses are predominantly found within these anatomic areas.

Intradural extramedullary tumors can be meningial in origin or from distant sites and include meningiomas and schwannomas. Of this group most tend to be benign. Intradural intramedullary tumors can be derived from neuroepithelial tissues. These general groups are neuronal, glial, and primitive neuroepithelial. Neuronal tumors are generally gangliocytomas. Tumors from primitive neuroectoderm are referred to as PNETs and frequently are labeled medulloblastomas. Glial tumors are derived from supportive structures and include astrocytomas, ependymomas, and oligodendrogliomas ¹⁾.