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Spinal Cord Compression

This is a major medical oncology emergency that can happen in any patient who has advanced cancer. Delay in appropriate treatment of this condition can result in permanent paralysis, loss of bladder and bowel function. This condition is due to the spread of cancer to the spine and tissues around the spinal cord that may result in compression of the cord.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Pain in the back or radiating from the back. Pain can be exacerbated by coughing or movement.

• Loss of sensation in lower part of the body

• Retention of urine

• Bowel and bladder dysfunction, incontinence

Diagnosis:

This is achieved by CT Scan or MRI of the Spine.

Treatment: Treatment of this condition should be started promptly by one or several of the following methods:

• Radiation therapy

• Steroids

• Chemotherapy

• Surgery

If cancer patients have any signs or symptoms of cord compression, they should contact their medical oncologist or their primary medical doctor so that treatment may begin immediately. The success of treatment depends on how early the intervention begins.

Sometimes a tissue diagnosis is required. A neurosurgeon or another specialist will take a biopsy or remove a portion of the tumor to insure a correct diagnosis.

Result of the treatment depends on the extent of the damage to the spinal cord and the timing of treatment. Best results are achieved when the condition is diagnosed very early and treated aggressively.