Highlights & Basics
- Malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC) is caused by metastatic or direct tumor spread into the epidural space.
- Tumors affecting the spinal column are often classified by their location as extradural, intradural extramedullary, or intradural intramedullary. Metastatic extradural (epidural) tumors are the most common type of spine tumor.
- Acute spinal cord compression is a medical emergency. Urgent diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent irreversible spinal cord injury and disability.
- Diagnosis of MSCC is by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the whole spine, preferably with gadolinium enhancement. Computed tomography myelography can be used if MRI is contraindicated or unavailable.
- Treatment usually involves corticosteroids initially, followed by radiation therapy with or without surgery as appropriate to the patient's circumstances.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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