Definition
The presacral space is the area between the rectum and lowest part of your spine, called the sacrum. A tumor is a growth in this area. It is rare but can be cancerous.
Sacral Area
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Causes
A presacral tumor may be caused by:
- Factors that are present from birth
- Hereditary disorders like Currarino syndrome
- Cancer of the connective tissue
- Other forms of cancer that have spread
Symptoms
In some cases, there are no symptoms. If symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Pain in the lower back or rectal/pelvic area
- Pain that spreads to the lower extremities
- A feeling of heaviness
- Constipation
- Overflow incontinence
- Weight loss
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done, as well as a digital rectal exam.
Images of your bodily structures may be taken. This can be done with:
Treatment
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. This will depend on the type of tumor you have. Treatment options include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor
- Chemotherapy —If the tumor is cancerous, chemotherapy may be used. This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy—This may be used along with chemotherapy. Radiation therapy involves using radiation to kill cancer cells and to shrink tumors.
