1
Q
Most common cause of acute spinal cord compression?
A
Metastatic SCC
2
Q
Most common primary cancers causing MSCC
A
Breast Prostate Thyroid Renal Luny
3
Q
Traumatic causes of SCC
A
Vertebral fracture or facet joint dislocation
4
Q
Infectious causes of SCC
A
TB/ Fungal
5
Q
Risk factors for SCC
ie things leading to a narrow cord canal
A
Inflammatory conditions e.g. Rheumatoid, Ank spond
Degenerative conditions e.g. spinal cord stenosis
6
Q
Gold standard for suspected SCC
A
MRI of the whole spine
- within a week if spinal mets suggested
- within a day is believe the cord is compressed
7
Q
Causes of CES
A
Disc herniation Mets Trauma Infection Chronic spinal inflammation e.g. ank spond
8
Q
Classification of CES
A
- Cauda Equina Syndrome with retention (CESR) – Presents as back pain with unilateral or bilateral sciatica, lower limb motor weakness, sensory disturbance in the saddle region, loss of anal tone, and loss of urinary control
- Incomplete Cauda Equina Syndrome (CESI) – As above, however only altered urinary sensation (e.g. loss of desire to void, diminished sensation, poor stream, and need to strain); painful retention may precede painless retention in some cases
- Suspected Cauda Equina Syndrome (CESS) – Cases of severe back and leg pains with variable neurological symptoms and signs, and a suggestion of sphincter disturbance.
9
Q
CES vs Cord compression
A
Majority LMN signs
vs UMN signs (though loss of the reflexes at the level of compression)
