Diagnosis and treatment of malignant spinal cord compression

Malignant spinal cord compression occurs in up to 10 per cent of people with cancer, and advances in treatments may increase its incidence as patients live longer. Nurses have an important role in all aspects of care, including early detection. Prompt treatment significantly improves patients' chances of avoiding permanent disability. However, the condition is characteristic of advanced cancer and therefore is in itself an indicator of poor prognosis.