Protocolo diagnóstico y tratamiento de la compresión medular en el paciente oncológico

Spinal cord compression (SCC) syndrome is a serious complication that occurs in 5%-10% of cancer patients. SCC is an oncologic emergency, requiring urgent treatment because delay can result in severe neurological compromise in 100 percent of cases. Back pain is the most common symptom suggestive of cord compression; however its appearance might vary in time before neurological symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and early treatment are crucial to preserve neurological function. The diagnostic test of choice is magnetic resonance imaging scan that provides the best diagnostic accuracy (95%) for vertebral metastases, paravertebral mass, and intramedullary spinal cord metastases. The goal of treatment is for pain relief, preservation or improvement of neurological function, stabilization of the spinal cord and local tumour control. Treatment options include systemic corticoids, radiotherapy, and surgery, administered either alone or combined.