Spinal cord compression MRI
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Diagnosis is by x rays but preferably magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the whole spine. The most common causes of cord compression are tumors, but abscesses and granulomas (e.g. in tuberculosis) are equally capable if producing the syndrome. Tumors that commonly cause cord compression are lung cancer (non-small cell type), breast cancer, prostate cancer, renal cell carcinoma, thyroid cancer, lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
MRI Spine
- MRI spine is diagnostic of spinal cord compression.
- MRI is the best initial test when there is incomplete paralysis or CT is inconclusive.
- Patients who present with a tumor history should undergo MRI-enhanced imaging.
- Epidural abscess is best detected by MRI.
- FIndings include:
- Extradural spinal hematoma
- Abscess or tumor
- Disk rupture
- Spinal cord hemorrhage, contusion or edema.