J Spinal Cord Med, 2007 · DOI: · Published: January 1, 2007
Cancer-related spinal cord injuries are becoming more common as the population ages. This report discusses two unusual cases of spinal cord injury caused by epidural B-cell lymphoma. Both patients experienced sensory deficits more severely than motor deficits and had difficulty walking. They were able to regain functional independence and their tumors went into remission with chemotherapy and radiation therapy. B-cell epidural tumors are a rare cause of spinal cord injury, but the functional outcome and tumor outcome can be positive. Residual sensory deficits are common.
Clinicians should be aware of B-cell lymphoma as a potential cause of SCI, especially in older patients.
Early diagnosis through imaging and biopsy, followed by decompression and combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is crucial for improved outcomes.
Rehabilitation programs should focus on maximizing functional independence, even in the presence of persistent sensory deficits.