Secondary bone cancer in the spine. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of a medial sagittal section of the dorsal spine of a 66-year-old patient, showing metastatic (secondary) tumours that have spread from a primary prostate cancer. The MRI scan shows the presence of multiple metastatic tumours in the vertebrae (bones of the spine), and bone condensation is likely. The T5 vertebra has a metastatic tumour which has resulted in compression of the spinal chord, causing this patient to experience neurological disorders. Spread of cancer to the spine from primary cancer of the prostate gland is common, and prognosis is very poor. Radiotherapy and steroid drug therapies are most commonly used for treatment, which is aimed at preserving function and quality of life.