Cancer/lower back pain

  • Thread starter Thread starter Giffex
  • Start date Start date
G

Giffex

Guest
My sister in law had a cancer called Wilms' tumor (stage II) when she was five. Lost he right kidney in the process and had to receive chemo and radiation. At the age 30 she was dignosed with breast cancer, masectomy, reconstruction and chemo done. Then she started complaining about lower back pain. Did an MRI scan (MR LUrabAR SPINE) today: The report gives special attention to the L4/L5. The report inidcate that on L4/L5 there is prominent spondylosis, with disc space narrowing end plate irregularity and also endplate oedema extending into the vertebral bodies, especially L4. L5 is a transitional vertebra. All the changes appear to be degenerative. Can the chemo be responsible for this? Can this degenrate further and what would the implications of such a degenration be, please. Thank you
 
I am so sorry for your sister's problems. The radiation and the chemo ddrugs that she has had could have weakened the vertebra-could have weakened just about any bone. The fact that she is having trouble could be a side issue, you just don't know.

Yes, the disc can degenerate further and it could lead to a fusion of the two discs to help cause stability and to reduce the pain levels. It is osmething that should be considered as a last resort becuase you don't undo fusions like that. there are other things that can be tried before she considers fusion. That is the last resort. My suggestion would be for her to see a good neuro back doctor that will be able to direct a course of action for her. IF it sin't bothering her, you do nothing. But if it is, then she neeRAB to see a good doc and discuss all the options with him.

Peace to her and your family.
 
Back
Top