Cauda equina syndrome

Question 1

AKA

Answer 1

• lumbosacral dz

Question 2

What is it?

Answer 2

• impingement, either static or dynamic, of the structures of the caudal equine can be associated with pain, incontinence or altered tail function
• it is usually a degenerative process affecting the L7-S1 intervertebral disc with a midline IVDD protrusion compressing the overlying cauda equine or secondary spondylosis associated with impingement of the L7 nerve root at the level of the intervertebral formaina
• can also be secondary to discospondylitis at L7-S1 or tail pull injury

Question 3

Presentation

Answer 3

• classic presentation of reluctance to jump or lifting of a hindlimb on rising or associated with jumping
• usually present without proprioceptive deficits in the hindlimbs if a midline protrusion at L7-S1

Question 4

Prevalence

Answer 4

• degenerative changes at L7-S1 are very common in the older dog
• not all are associated with CS

Question 5

Tx

Answer 5

• conservative therapy with analgesia and exercise management can be effective in many cases
• more invasive therapy such as epidural instillation of corticosteroids or surgical decompression may be needed for resolution in some cases