Rapid progression of metastatic non−small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after discontinuation of tyrosine kinase inhibitors or anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitors has been described and is associated with a poor prognosis. We describe the first reported case of accelerated NSCLC tumor extension throughout the entire spinal epidural space
The differential diagnosis when evaluating presumed spine epidural abscess should include tumor and metastatic disease, even in cases of rapid development. Recent termination of tyrosine kinase inhibitors or ALK inhibitors may result in severe disease flares, and a history of such should raise clinical suspicion for metastatic progression. In addition to cultures, biopsy for pathologic diagnosis should be collected during decompressive surgery. READ ARTICLE
World Neurosurgery DOI:10.1016/j.wneu.2018.11.118
Authors: Carole S.L. Spake, Daniel B.C. Reid, Alan H. Daniels