Intradural Cauda Equina Metastases: A Systematic Review of Clinico-radiological Features, Management, and Treatment Outcomes

Abstract

Background/Aim: Intradural cauda equina metastases (ICEM) are rare tumors that reduce functional status. Surgery and radiation are feasible and effective treatments but may have debilitating complications. We systematically reviewed the literature on ICEMs. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane were searched for studies reporting clinical data of patients with ICEMs. Clinical characteristics, management strategies, and treatment outcomes were analyzed. Results: We included 40 studies comprising 123 patients. Median age was 57 years. The most frequent primary tumors were lung (18.7%), breast (13%), and renal carcinomas (11.4%). Median time from primary tumor diagnosis to ICEMs’ presentation was 36 months. The