Spinal Cord Disorders

Question 1

• Cauda equina syndrome =
• Conus medullaris syndrome =

Answer 1

• asymmetric motor weakness
• symmetric motor weakness

Question 2

Does conus medullaris syndrome present with upper or lower motor neuron symptoms?

Answer 2

Both

Question 3

Sudden-onset lower back pain, symmetrical and hyperreflexic distal paresis of the lower limbs, perianal numbness, and bladder and fecal incontinence:

Answer 3

Conus medullaris syndrome

Question 4

Asymmetric muscle weakness, decreased reflexes, saddle anesthesia and bowel and bladder dysfunction:

Answer 4

Cauda equina syndrome

Question 5

What is the likely diagnosis in an elderly patient that presents with marked weakness in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities and with diminished pain and temperature sensation following a motor vehicle accident?

Answer 5

Central cord syndrome

Question 6

Clinical features of anterior cord syndrome ACS include

Answer 6

• Symmetric bilateral spastic paresis
• Hyperreflexia,
• Decreased pain and temperature sensation distal to the lesion.

Question 7

What features are preserved in anterior spinal artery syndrome?

Answer 7

Vibration and light touch sensation

Question 8

What is the best test for the diagnosis of central cord syndrome?

Answer 8

MRI spine without contrast

Question 9

Anterior spinal artery occlusion results in signs of bilateral _____ motor neuron lesion at the level of the infarct and bilateral _____ motor neuron lesion below the infarct

Answer 9

lower
upper