UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI COLLEGE OF MEDICAL SCIENCES FACULTY OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCE SEMINAR (M-ANA 414) PRESENTATION ON A TOPIC: CAUDA EQUINA SYNDROME BY MUHAMMAD MUZZAMMIL BASHIR 17/01/01/040 SUPERVISED BY: DR. N. I. DIBAL
Introduction At the lower end of spine is a bundle of nerve roots called the cauda equina . That’s Latin for “horse’s tail.” The cauda equina communicates with brain, sending nerve signals back and forth regarding the sensory and motor functions of lower limbs and the organs in the pelvic region Cauda Equina Syndrome: Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but serious neurological condition affecting the bundle of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord. It describes extreme pressure and swelling of the nerves. (James R., 2016).
Cauda Equina is a serious medical condition that requires prompt attention. Here's a brief overview: *What is Cauda Equina?* Cauda Equina is a rare but potentially debilitating condition that occurs when the nerves in the lower spine (L1-L5) are compressed or damaged, leading to a range of symptoms. *Causes:* - Herniated disk - Spinal stenosis - Trauma - Tumors - Infections - Spinal fractures *Symptoms:* - Severe lower back pain - Sciatica (pain, numbness, tingling in legs) - Weakness or paralysis in legs - Loss of bladder or bowel control - Numbness or tingling in groin or genital area - Sexual dysfunction *Treatment:* - Urgent surgical decompression to relieve pressure on nerves - Physical therapy - Pain management - Bladder and bowel rehabilitation *Importance of prompt treatment:* Delayed treatment can lead to permanent nerve damage, resulting in: - Persistent paralysis - Loss of bladder and bowel control - Chronic pain - Sexual dysfunction If you suspect Cauda Equina, seek immediate medical attention!
Causes Of Cauda Equina Syndrome A severe ruptured disk in the lumbar area Stenosis - narrowing of the spinal canal A spinal lesion or malignant tumor A spinal infection, inflammation, hemorrhage, or fracture A complication from a severe lumbar spine injury such as a car crash, fall, gunshot, or stabbing A birth defect such as an abnormal connection between blood vessels ( arteriovenous malformation)
Sign and Symptoms CES symptoms can take a long time to develop and may vary in severity. This can make diagnosis difficult. Bladder dysfunction such as urinary retention or incontinence (loss of control) Fecal incontinence: this occurs due to dysfunction of the anal sphincter. “Saddle anesthesia” sensory disturbance, which can involve the anus, genitals and buttock region. Intense lower back pain Weakness, pain, or a loss of sensation in one or both legs Loss of reflexes in lower limbs Sexual dysfunction
Treating Cauda Equina Syndrome C auda equina syndrome patient will need prompt treatment to relieve pressure on the nerves. Surgery must be done quickly to prevent permanent damage, such as paralysis of the legs, loss of bladder and bowel control, sexual function, or other problems. It is best if this occurs within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. Depending on the cause the CES , the patient may also need high doses of corticosteroids. These can reduce swelling. If you are diagnosed with an infection you may need antibiotics. If a tumor is responsible, radiation or chemotherapy may be needed after surgery.
Conclusion Cauda equina syndrome is a rare disorder that usually is a surgical emergency. In patients with cauda equina syndrome, something compresses on the spinal nerve roots. You may need fast treatment to prevent lasting damage leading to incontinence and possibly permanent paralysis of the legs. Cauda equina syndrome (CES) occurs when there is dysfunction of multiple lumbar and sacral nerve roots of the cauda equina .
Reference The American Journal of Medicine. Evaluation and Management of Cauda Equina Syndrome. Eren O. Kuris., Alan H. Daniels. 30 August, 2021. https://www.amjmed.com/article/S0002-9343(21)00506-4/fulltext. Retrieved 22/10/2021. https://www.spine-health.com/conditions/lower-back-pain/cauda-equina-syndrome. Cauda Equina Syndrome. By Alan Villavicencio. Retrieved 22/10/2021. Spine-Health. https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Cauda-Equina-Syndrome. Cauda Equina Syndrome. By Diana Wise man. American Association of Neurological Surgeons. Retrieved 22/10/2021. https://www.webmd.com/back-pain/guide/cauda-equina-syndrome-overview. Cauda Equina Syndrome Overview. By Annie Stuart. Web MD. Retrieved 22/10/2021. https://www.healthline.com/health/cauda-equina-syndrome. What Is Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) and How Is It Treated?. By James Roland. Health Line. Retrieved 22/10/2021.