Cauda equina syndrome describes a combination of symptoms and signs which result from a lesion of the nerves in the cauda equina.
The cauda equina begins in most people around L1/L2.
The most common cause of cauda equina is disc herniation
Other causes of cauda equina include:
- Lumbar spinal stenosis
- Epidural abscess
- Epidural haematoma
- Tumours
- Trauma
- Ankylosing spondylitis
- Inferior vena cava thrombosis
Signs and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include:
- Low back pain
- Urinary retention or incontinence
- Faecal incontinence/constipation
- Loss or decrease of lower limb reflexes
- Decreased anal tone
- Saddle/perianal paraesthesia
- Motor/sensory weakness in lower limbs
Investigation is MRI
Management is surgical
High dose steroids may have a role whilst awaiting surgery
