Subacute Combined Degeneration (incomplete) Flashcards
What is subacute combined degeneration?
A neurological condition characterized by degeneration of the spinal cord’s dorsal columns and corticospinal tracts.
Which vitamin deficiency is primarily associated with subacute combined degeneration?
Vitamin B12 deficiency.
True or False: Subacute combined degeneration can occur due to copper deficiency.
True.
What are the primary symptoms of subacute combined degeneration?
Symptoms include sensory ataxia, weakness, and proprioceptive loss.
Fill in the blank: Subacute combined degeneration primarily affects the _____ columns of the spinal cord.
dorsal
What is the typical age range for patients with subacute combined degeneration?
It commonly occurs in adults, typically between 40 and 60 years of age.
List one neurological sign associated with subacute combined degeneration.
Romberg’s sign.
What laboratory test is most useful in diagnosing vitamin B12 deficiency?
Serum methylmalonic acid and homocysteine levels.
What imaging technique can be used to assess changes in the spinal cord in subacute combined degeneration?
MRI of the spine.
True or False: Subacute combined degeneration is reversible with appropriate treatment.
True.
Which treatment is most effective for subacute combined degeneration due to vitamin B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 supplementation.
What is the role of the dorsal columns in the nervous system?
They are responsible for proprioception and fine touch sensation.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a cause of subacute combined degeneration? A) Vitamin B12 deficiency B) Copper deficiency C) Iron deficiency D) HIV infection
C) Iron deficiency.
What is the prognosis for patients diagnosed with subacute combined degeneration if treated early?
The prognosis is generally good with early and appropriate treatment.
Fill in the blank: Symptoms of subacute combined degeneration may include _____ and _____.
ataxia, weakness
What is the most common demographic affected by subacute combined degeneration?
Individuals with malabsorption syndromes, such as pernicious anemia.
True or False: Subacute combined degeneration can lead to irreversible neurological damage if left untreated.
True.
What is the significance of a positive Babinski sign in subacute combined degeneration?
It indicates upper motor neuron involvement.
Which additional laboratory test can help assess for myelopathy in subacute combined degeneration?
Complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia.
What dietary sources are rich in vitamin B12?
Meat, fish, dairy products, and fortified cereals.
What is the typical dosage of vitamin B12 for treating deficiency in subacute combined degeneration?
1,000 micrograms intramuscularly once a month.
Fill in the blank: Subacute combined degeneration can present with _____ disturbances.
gait
What is the relationship between subacute combined degeneration and the corticospinal tracts?
Degeneration of the corticospinal tracts leads to weakness and increased muscle tone.
What neurological examination finding is indicative of sensory ataxia?
Difficulty standing with feet together (Romberg test).
