Is cancer of the spine fatal?

As an expert in the field of oncology, I can provide you with information regarding spinal cord cancer, specifically lymphoma of the spinal cord, which is a type of cancer that can affect the spinal cord. Spinal cord cancer, when referring to primary lymphoma of the central nervous system, can be fatal if left untreated. The prognosis for such cases is quite poor, with a median survival of only a few months from the time of diagnosis. However, it's important to note that with treatment, the prognosis can improve significantly. Treatment options may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and sometimes surgery, depending on the specific type and location of the tumor. It's also worth mentioning that even with treatment, spinal cord cancer can recur, and when it does, it is often associated with a very poor prognosis. The overall outcome varies greatly depending on factors such as the type of cancer, the extent of the disease, the patient's overall health, and the effectiveness of the treatments administered. In summary, while spinal cord cancer can be fatal, especially if untreated, modern medical treatments can extend life and sometimes even lead to remission. It's crucial for patients to undergo a comprehensive evaluation and to receive care from a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals.

Prognosis of Spinal Cord Cancer (Lymphoma of the Spinal Cord) Untreated primary lymphoma of the central nervous system is rapidly fatal with median survival of only months from the time of diagnosis. ... However, the disease tends to recur and be associated with a very poor prognosis.