Spinal Cord Compression Flashcards

1
Q

What are the features of spinal cord compression?

A

*back pain
»the earliest and most common symptom
»may be worse on lying down and coughing

  • lower limb weakness
  • sensory changes: sensory loss and numbness
  • Lesions above L1 result in upper motor neurone signs in legs. Lesions below L1 cause lower motor neurone signs in legs and perianal numbness
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

What investigation is required is suspected spinal cord compression?

A

Whole spine MRI

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What is the management of spinal cord compression?

A
  • High dose-oral dexamethasone
  • Referral urgent oncological assessment (consideration for radiotherapy or surgery to back)
  • Neurosurgery team potential involvement
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly