Tetraplegic spinal cord injury as a presentation of multiple myeloma: A case report

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells that often affects bones. This case report describes an unusual presentation where the cancer compressed the spinal cord, leading to tetraplegia. The patient, a 79-year-old man, initially experienced back pain and leg weakness, which rapidly progressed to paralysis. Imaging revealed a lesion on the T1 vertebra causing spinal cord compression. The case highlights the importance of considering spinal cord compression in patients with multiple myeloma, as early diagnosis and intervention may prevent severe neurological complications.

• 1
  The patient presented with acute-onset paraplegia secondary to spinal cord compression from a T1 vertebral lesion caused by multiple myeloma.
• 2
  Despite surgical decompression and chemotherapy, the patient experienced limited neurological recovery and developed complications such as DVT and steroid-induced hypercalcemia.
• 3
  The case underscores the challenges of managing spinal cord injury complicated by underlying malignancy and the impact on functional outcomes and long-term care planning.