Cauda equina

Question 1

What are possible causes

Answer 1

Herniated disc
Tumours
Spondylolisthesis
abscess
trauma

Question 2

What sensory, motor and parasympathetic function does the caudal equine supply

Answer 2

Sensation to lower limbs, perineum, bladder and rectum
Motor innervation to the lower limbs, anal and urethral sphincters
Parasympathetic innervation of the bladder and rectum

Question 3

What are the red flags to look out for

Answer 3

Saddle anaesthesia
Loss of sensation in the bladder and rectum
Urinary retention or incontinence
Faecal incontinence
BL sciatica
BL motor weakness in legs
Reduced anal tone

Question 4

Does cauda equina present with lower or upper motor neuron signs? what are they

Answer 4

lower
reduced tone and reduced reflexes

Question 5

What nerve roots does the cauda equina made up of

Answer 5

L3-L5
S1-S5
Coccygeal nerve