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Oncologic Emergencies – Spinal Cord Compression Video

ACLS Certification Association videos have been peer-reviewed for medical accuracy by the ACA medical review board.

Video at a Glance

  • Around 10% of all cancer patients develop spinal metastases with lower back pain as an initial presenting symptom.
  • Providers should make sure to ask patients with acute lower back pain if they have other co-occurring cancer symptoms, such as weight loss or fatigue.
  • Pain is the first symptom of spinal metastases, and as it progresses to cord compression, neurologic dysfunctions may occur, including neuropathic pain, motor dysfunction, or autonomic dysfunction.
  • Cord compression red flags indicating an emergency and requiring immediate intervention by a neurosurgeon include bladder dysfunction, sphincter disturbance, saddle anesthesia, and bilateral lower extremity weakness.
  • When a red flag presents, the patient may experience total paralysis within one hour.
  • Unless a red flag is present, an MRI is the primary mode of evaluation.

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ACLS Certification Association (ACA) uses only high-quality medical resources and peer-reviewed studies to support the facts within our articles. Explore our editorial process to learn how our content reflects clinical accuracy and the latest best practices in medicine. As an ACA Authorized Training Center, all content is reviewed for medical accuracy by the ACA Medical Review Board.

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