Purpose: To determine the incidence and treatment outcome of compression of
the cauda equina by metastatic disease in patients with breast cancer.
Methods: A retrospective study of individuals diagnosed with breast cancer
at a single institution during a 16-year period was undertaken.
Results: Of the 1,283 patients studied, 15 (1.2%) developed cauda equina sy
ndrome from metastatic disease. The median survival was eight months; ten (
67%) survived for at least six months. Among the evaluable patients, pain w
as completely relieved in eight of ten women; complete resolution of neurol
ogic deficits was observed in five of nine patients.
Conclusion: Metastatic breast cancer compression of the cauda equina and lo
ng-term survival of patients are infrequent occurrences. Beneficial respons
es can be mediated by radiotherapy.