Acute spinal cord compression
From IDWiki
Clinical Manifestations
- Upper motor neuron lesion
- Must be differentiated from cauda equina syndrome, which is lower motor neuron
| Cord Compression | Cauda equina | |
|---|---|---|
| Pain | Back pain, radicular pain wrapping around | Back pain |
| Motor | Pyramidal distribution weakness (flexors in LE, extensors in UE) | Flaccid paralysis, decreased anal tone |
| Reflexes | Hyperreflexia, upgoing plantar reflex | Decreased or absent reflexes, downgoing plantar reflex |
| Sensation | Loss of sensation below lesion | Saddle anaesthesia |
| GI/GU | Urinary retention, bowel incontinence | Urinary retention, bowel incontinence |
| Gait | Ataxic | Ataxic |
