A Comparative Departmental Census of Intra-Cranial and Spinal Tumours

Abstract

Aims
Concerns have been raised that the incidence of brain and spinal tumours in adults and children is increasing, potentially having implications for support services in immediate and long-term. We compared the incidence of brain and spinal tumours diagnosed in 2019 and 2024, and contrasted these findings with historical data from the same department.

Methods
Neuropathology files at Beaumont Hospital for 2019 and 2024 were reviewed. Tumours with pathologically confirmed diagnoses were included and classified using the International Classification of Diseases. Information regarding topography, genetic data, and patient age was harvested. Comparative analyses were performed using Fisher’s exact test, and paired t-tests.

Results
No significant differences were identified between 2019 and 2024 in tumour frequency, morphology, mean age, or incidence of childhood tumours. However, an increase from an average of 123 patients between 1969 and 1983 to an average of 750 patients across 2019 and 2024 was noted, reflecting a 510% increase.

Conclusion
Over the period between 2019 and 2024, no significant increase in brain or spinal tumours was observed, suggesting no immediate rise in demand for support services based on case numbers alone. The marked increase relative to historical likely reflects improved access to neurological care, advanced neuroimaging, and evolving clinical management strategies rather than a true rise in tumour incidence.