Which assessment findings are consistent with spinal cord compression in a patient with metastatic cancer? Select all that apply.

A. Loss of bowel control: Loss of bowel or bladder control is a late sign of spinal cord compression. Compression of sacral nerve roots impairs autonomic function, making this a critical symptom to assess and report immediately. B. Sharp thoracic back pain: Localized, severe, or sharp back pain, especially in the thoracic region, is often the earliest symptom of spinal cord compression. It may worsen with movement or coughing and signals pressure on vertebral or spinal structures. C. Inability to move arms: Arm paralysis occurs only if cervical spinal cord levels are affected. In metastatic cancer, compression is most commonly thoracic or lumbar, so upper extremity motor loss is less typical and not a consistent finding unless the lesion is cervical. D. Progressive muscle weakness in legs: Weakness in the lower extremities is a hallmark early manifestation of thoracic or lumbar spinal cord compression. It typically progresses gradually, reflecting motor pathway involvement. E. Paresthesia in lower extremities: Sensory changes, such as numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the legs, occur as the spinal cord or nerve roots are compressed. Early recognition helps prevent permanent neurologic deficits.