What is the treatment for metastatic spinal cord compression?
The doctors will usually give you high doses of a steroid (dexamethasone) straight away if they think you may have MSCC. This helps reduce pressure and swelling around the spinal cord. It can also quickly relieve symptoms such as pain. You may be given a mix of steroid injections and tablets.
What causes metastatic spinal cord compression?
Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) happens when a cancerous tumour damages or presses on the nerves in the spinal cord. These nerves send messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Any damage can interrupt these messages.
Can spinal compression cause paralysis?
If compression increases, symptoms may worsen. If all nerve impulses are blocked, the following result: Paralysis (which can cause problems with breathing if the spinal cord in the neck is compressed) Complete loss of sensation in the area controlled by the part of the spinal cord below the compressed part.
Which type of cancer is a common cause of spinal cord compression?
The most common cause of spinal cord compression in people with cancer is metastasis to the spine. About 60%–70% of metastases to the spine occur in the middle part of the back, which is called the thoracic spine. About 20%–30% of metastases happen in the lower back, or lumbosacral spine.
Is spinal cord compression serious?
Spinal cord compression happens when pressure on the spinal cord stops the nerves working normally. Spinal cord compression is an emergency and needs to be treated quickly. Contact your doctor straight away if you have any symptoms of spinal cord compression.
What do spine Mets feel like?
Patients with metastases to the spinal cord often have pain or discomfort that is worse at night or with bed rest. However, those patients with lesions involving the long bones, such as the arms and legs, have pain with activity or movement. In this case, some relief is usually achieved with rest.
Can you live with spinal cord compression?
Spinal cord compression as a complication of bone metastases is a medical emergency, but prompt treatment cannot only reduce the risk of permanent problems (such as paralysis) but can often improve both survival rate and quality of life.
How serious is spinal cord compression?
Spinal cord compression can cause cauda equina syndrome, which needs medical attention right away. Call your healthcare provider or go to the emergency room if you have: Sudden loss of bowel or bladder control. Severe or increasing numbness between your legs, inner thighs, or back of your legs.
What do spinal metastases feel like?
What happens if spinal cord compression is left untreated?
Without treatment, spinal cord compression can cause damage to the spinal nerves, which can result in loss of bladder or bowel control or paralysis. If you experience sudden inability to control your bladder or bowels, or if you have severe weakness or numbness, you should seek medical care immediately.
What is the best treatment for spinal cord compression?
Anti-inflammatory medications may help decrease swelling and reduce pain.
What are some causes of spinal cord compression?
Motor vehicle accidents. Auto and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries,accounting for almost half of new spinal cord injuries each year.
What is the treatment for spinal cord compression?
– Practice deep breathing and meditation. Both activities can help your body to relax, which may ease pain. – Reduce stress. Stress can intensify inflammation and pain. – Exercise. Moving is important to managing pain effectively. – Don’t smoke. – Cut back on alcohol. – Distract yourself. – Find the right mattress.
What does spinal cord compression feel like?
They depend on how severe the compression is and on what area of the spinal cord is compressed. One of the most common symptoms is stiffness or pain in the back or the neck. Numbness or weakness in the legs, hands, and arms can also develop.