Spinal cancer in Barranquilla, Colombia

What is spinal cancer?

It refers to tumors affecting the vertebrae or spinal cord. Tumors that start in the spine are rare; most are metastases from other cancers, especially breast, lung, prostate, kidney and thyroid, or blood cancers such as multiple myeloma.

Which signs should raise concern?

Back pain that worsens at night or at rest, does not improve with usual treatment, and comes with unexplained weight loss, fever or fatigue, especially in people with a history of cancer or over age 50.

When is it an emergency?

If leg weakness, difficulty walking, numbness in the genital area or loss of bladder or bowel control appear. This may indicate spinal cord compression and needs immediate care.

How is it treated?

It depends on the tumor type and extent. It may include radiotherapy, surgery to decompress and stabilize the spine, chemotherapy or other treatments, plus pain management. Decisions are made by a team of oncologist, neurosurgeon or orthopedic spine surgeon, radiation oncologist and pain specialist.

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