Cauda Equina Syndrome: A Case Report

Abstract

Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare syndrome which is characterized by low back pain, unilateral or bilateral sciatica, motor weakness of lower extremities, saddle anesthesia, bowel and bladder dysfunction and occasionally paraplegia—resulting from compression of the cauda equina. It can be caused by herniated disc, tumor, infection, fracture, or narrowing of spinal cord. It can be described in two forms based on the onset of signs and symptoms. if symptoms appear within 24hours then it is acute in onset and if patient develop symptoms after several weeks or months then it is gradual in onset. The sooner it can be diagnosed, the better chance the patient makes a better recovery from symptoms of nerve damage. It generally requires prompt surgical decompression in order to decrease or eliminate pressure on the affected nerves. surgical decompression is advocated as soon as possible, within about 8 hours of the onset of symptoms if symptoms develop suddenly. If patients with cauda equina syndrome do not receive treatment quickly, adverse results can include paralysis, impaired bladder, and/or bowel control, difficulty walking, and/or other neurological and physical problems.