Epidural Spinal Cord Compression in Adult Neoplasms

Neoplasms can compromise spinal cord function, resulting in devastating neurological deficits with significant limitations in daily functioning, including immobilizing pain and neurological dysfunction. Among all causes of myelopathies in cancer patients, epidural spinal cord compression (ESCC) is by far the most common, but its incidence varies widely based on cancer type. An estimated 5% of cancer patients develop epidural metastatic invasion, and 2.5% of all cancer patients have at least one hospitalization for epidural spinal metastases. In a cancer patient reporting back pain, incontinence, weakness, or sensory changes, it is essential that epidural disease be considered. Knowledge of pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options of ESCC is essential in decreasing the potential morbidities associated with this entity in cancer patients.