Secondary bone cancer in the spine. 2D coloured computerised tomography (CT) scan of an axial section of the dorsal spine of a 62-year-old patient, showing a metastatic (secondary) tumour that has spread from a primary prostate cancer. The CT scan (under intravenous iodine injection) shows bone condensation, and the presence of a metastatic tumour in the T12 vertebral bone of the spine. The cancer has spread (metastasized) from a site of primary cancer in the prostate gland. Spread of cancer to the spine is common. Prognosis is very poor, with treatment aimed at preserving function and quality of life. Radiotherapy and steroid drug therapies are most commonly used.