What Are Brain And Spinal Tumor Brain and spinal cord tu mors are abnormal growths of tissue found inside the skull or the bony spinal column. Tumors are classed as benign (non cancerous) of malignant (cancerous) benign tumors cells are similar to other normal cells, grow slowly and confined to one location. Malignant tumor cells are different from normal cells, grow quickly, and spread easy to other locations. In most parts of the body benign tumors are not harmful, except when they are located in the brain and spinal cord. Any abnormal growth in this area can place pressure on sensitive tissue and impair function; ex: a benign tumor growing nex