Cauda Equina

Question 1

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Answer 1

Cauda equina syndrome is characterised by compression of the cauda equina.

The cauda equina, translated from latin as the “horses tail”, describes the collection of nerve roots which extend beyond the termination of the spinal cord at level L1, to exit the spinal column in the lower lumbar and sacral region.

Question 2

Cause

Answer 2

most common cause is lumbar disc herniation

Question 3

Clinical Features

Answer 3

Lower back pain associated with alternating or bilateral radicular pain

Saddle anaesthesia (often manifest as an inability to feel toilet paper when wiping)

Bladder and bowel disturbance (which may manifest as either constipation/retention or incontinence)