Objective.

The aim of this study was to discuss the evolution of molecular signatures and the history and development of targeted therapeutics in metastatic tumor types affecting the spinal column.

Summary of Background Data.

Molecular characterization of metastatic spine tumors is expected to usher in a revolution in diagnostic and treatment paradigms. Molecular characterization will provide critical information that can be used for initial diagnosis, prognosticating the ideal treatment strategy, assessment of treatment efficacy, surveillance and monitoring recurrence, and predicting complications, clinical outcome, and overall survival in patients diagnosed with metastatic cancers to the spinal column.

Methods.

A review of the literature was performed focusing on illustrative examples of the role that molecular-based therapeutics have played in clinical outcomes for patients diagnosed with metastatic tumor types affecting the spinal column.

Results.

The impact of molecular therapeutics including receptor tyrosine kinases and immune checkpoint inhibitors and the ability of molecular signatures to provide prognostic information are discussed in metastatic breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma, and renal cell cancer affecting the spinal column.

Conclusion.

For the providers who will ultimately counsel patients diagnosed with metastases to the spinal column, molecular advancements will radically alter the management/surgical paradigms utilized. Ultimately, the translation of these molecular advancements into routine clinical care will greatly improve the quality and quantity of life for patients diagnosed with spinal malignancies and provide better overall outcomes and counseling for treating physicians.

Level of Evidence: N/A

With the identification of tumor-specific molecular signatures and the development of targeted therapeutics, there has been a significant increase in the quality and quantity of life for patients diagnosed with spinal malignancies. Several tumor subtypes have demonstrated substantial improvements in overall survival (OS) and there is considerable expectation that future studies will yield even better therapies. Moreover, there is an armamentarium of drugs currently under development and in clinical trials targeting the molecular mediators of cancer. With this advent of molecular-based diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, the concept of personalized medicine has evolved into a tangible paradigm through which the benefits to patients can be realized.