Strahlentherapie und Onkologie : Organ der Deutschen Röntgengesellschaft ... [et al]
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Comparative Study
[Metastatic epidural spinal compression: prognostic factors and results of radiotherapy].
The metastatic epidural spinal cord compression is an oncologic emergency. Presently, there is no agreement on a standard diagnostic or therapeutic algorithm. In spite of improvement in diagnostic imaging, a great proportion of patients are plegic at the time of the first presentation. ⋯ Patients with a known malignant tumor and progressive or axial back pain should undergo MRI scan to rule out spinal cord compression. For patients without severe neurologic deficit and MRI proven epidural compression, radiation therapy is able to preserve walking ability and reduce pain. For patients with neurologic symptoms radiation therapy should start within 24 hours.