As aduvnces in the treatment of leukemia lead to further prolongation of the life span, secondary involvement of the nervous system becomes incresingly important. Especially spinal cord or cauda equina compression by leukemic cell is a medical
emergency
because delay in treatment often results in irreversible paralysis and loss of sphinctercontrol. The hospital records of 10 patients. Who were admitted to the St. Mary's hospital of CUMC from January 1, 1988 to September 30, 1989 with the
diagnosis
of
spinal leukemia were analyzed retrospectively and the results were obtained as follows;
The sex ratio (M : F) of the patients was 9:1 and the age distribution ranged from eighteen to fifty-six years with a mean age of 34.5 years.
The most common symptoms were pain, urinary difficulty, sensorychange, and weakness etc.
The segment of spine involved was, approximately, 31% thoracic, 54% lumbar, and 15% sacral.
Response to radiation treatment was excellent in 8 patients (80%) especially in early treated group within 3days.
We emphasize the importance of early diagnosis with high index of suspicion and early radiotherapy.
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