Cancer Detection from Lower Back Pains

Discomfort in the lower back is common enough that it is rarely a cause for concern; however, back pain can signal more than just routine muscle strain. In fact, in some cases physicians can engage in cancer detection from lower back pains, which makes it important to notify your doctor if your back hurts.

Ovarian cancer and back pain

One of the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer, and sometimes the only symptom, is lower back pain. Over 90 percent of women in the early stages of ovarian cancer will experience lower back pain at some point. The cancer is commonly first detected through a pelvic exam, usually followed by an ultrasound. In some cases a blood test may also be performed, since this procedure can be used to measure tumor size.

Spinal tumors and back pain

Lower back pain is also often seen in patients who have spinal tumors. Leukemia, myeloma and lymphoma are the three main types of cancer that develop spinal tumors. A spinal MRI and CT scan are both typically done to detect the cancer after a patient has been complaining of worsening lower back pain. In some cases the doctor also examines the cerebrospinal fluid.

Metastasis and back pain

Metastatic cancer occurs when a primary cancer expands to other areas of the body. Many cancers can eventually spread to the spinal area, causing back pain. Patients who experience discomfort in the lower back after they are being treated for cancer will often be examined to see if the cancer has spread. In most cases a physician will do multiple x-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans to see if the primary cancer has spread elsewhere.

Lower back pain can be a symptom of cancer, and many physicians use it as a first step in detecting cancer. While several cancers exhibit this symptom, women suffering from ovarian cancer are especially prone to lower back pain.