Adenocarcinoma of the Prostate and Metastatic Medullary Compression

Abstract

A retrospective study of 709 patients with prostatic cancer was carried out. Twenty-two developed medullary cord compression (an incidence of 3%). All but two of the 22 patients were treated by radiation and 10 had additional hormonal treatment. Ten had some benefit from the treatment, but only 2 of 19 regained their ability to walk. The need for immediate diagnosis and treatment is stressed.

Keywords:

• prostatic cancer
• vertebral metastases
• medullary compression
• cord compression
• spinal cord compression
• radiation treatment
• hormonal treatment.