I recently did a deep dive into this to make the management of acute LBP image.
I know its true if you suspect cord compression which covers
- Urinary symptoms (incontinence or retention)
- Sexual dysfunction (ED or priapism)
- Bilateral lower extremity weakness
- Sensory deficits in a dermatome
History of cancer is more vertebral metastasis which for that you would give steroids first if they have overlapping signs of cord compression. Not just a history of cancer on it’s own tho. so I don’t believe that’s true but may be wrong
idk about fever part bc there’s another card for spinal epidural abscess that says " - NO STEROIDS" nid:1557421359495