Radiculopathy in Oncology: A Comprehensive Review of Cancer-Related and Treatment-Induced Disorders

Abstract Purpose of Review Radicular pain is one of the most common neuromuscular complaints in patients with a history of cancer. However, there are many causes of radiculopathy unique to the oncologic setting that clinicians may be less familiar with. This review provides an overview of common etiologies and suggested evaluation. Recent Findings While the most common cause of radiculopathy in patients regardless of cancer-status is degenerative spondylosis, the differential for cancer survivors should remain broad and includes primary and secondary tumors, vascular complications, infection, fracture, paraprotein disorders, and paraneoplastic syndromes. Depending on treatment history, providers should also consider chemotherapy and immunotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathies and radiation fibrosis syndrome. Certain patient factors and the presence or absence of systemic symptoms can help providers narrow their differential and perform a structured evaluation. Summary While the majority of radiculopathy in cancer patients is due to non-malignant causes, such as degenerative disc disease, there are many etiologies unique to cancer that warrant special consideration and comprehensive evaluation.