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
2
Q
What investigation is required is suspected spinal cord compression?
A
Whole spine MRI
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