Could x-ray of low back show a spinal tumor? x-ray was done for follow up for a flare up of a herniated disc. severe low back pain where herniation is

Special X rays: Routine spine x-ray will not show need MRI or some time ct scan of spine is needed.

Only at later stage: X=ray is not a good screening tool for spinal tumor, as visualization of a radiolucent defect on x-rays requires a 50% destruction of the vertebral body. One typically notices a sign called "winking owl sign" on plain x-ray as a late presentation of spinal tumor. There are better ways of visualizing and diagnosing spinal tumors. X-rays are least preferred as it is not very sensitive.