[1] Because of their location and lack of valves, they are believed to provide a route for the spread of cancer metastases.
[2][3][4] These metastases commonly arise from cancer of the pelvic organs such as the rectum[5] and prostate[6] and may spread to the vertebral column or brain.
[2] Batson's plexus is part of the Cerebrospinal venous system.
Batson's venous plexus may also allow the spread of infection in a similar manner.
neuroschistomiasis,[9] Urinary tract infections like pyelonephritis have been shown to spread to cause osteomyelitis of the vertebrae via this route.