Back pain in the cancer patient: An algorithm for evaluation and management

摘要: Epidural spinal cord compression is common in patients with metastatic cancer. Back pain usually the first symptom and may be present for months before neurologic abnormalities occur. A favorable outcome depends on early diagnosis treatment. For management of this problem, we propose an algorithm that begins treatment who need emergency care proceeds orderly approach to evaluation less urgent cases. The central elements include criteria myelography rational use corticosteroids, radiation therapy, surgery.