Commonest spinal tumour is –
**Core Concept**
The question is testing knowledge of the most common spinal tumor, which is a type of neoplasm that arises in the spinal cord or vertebrae. The correct answer is a specific type of tumor that is well-known in the field of neurosurgery and oncology.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is **A. Osteochondroma**. This is because osteochondromas are the most common primary bone tumors in the spine, accounting for approximately 30-40% of all primary spinal tumors. They are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that arise from the cartilage of the vertebrae and can cause symptoms such as back pain, numbness, and weakness in the limbs. Osteochondromas are often associated with the posterior elements of the spine, including the pedicles, laminae, and spinous processes.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor that is more common in the long bones of the limbs, but it is not the most common spinal tumor.
* **Option C:** Ewing's sarcoma is a rare malignant bone tumor that can occur in the spine, but it is not as common as osteochondroma.
* **Option D:** Meningioma is a type of brain tumor that can occur in the spinal canal, but it is not the most common spinal tumor.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It's essential to remember that osteochondromas are often asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally on imaging studies. However, if they become symptomatic, they can cause significant morbidity, including neurological deficits and spinal deformity.
**Correct Answer: A. Osteochondroma**