Cauda equina syndrome
Synopsis
Onset is typically gradual but can be acute. Signs and symptoms include severe back pain that may radiate into one or both legs, saddle anesthesia, leg weakness or paraplegia, urinary or bowel dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, and gait disturbance. There may be reduced or absent patellar, Achilles, anal, and bulbocavernosus reflexes.
Prognosis depends on severity and duration of compression or damage to the affected nerves.
Codes
G83.4 – Cauda equina syndrome
SNOMEDCT:
192970008 – Cauda Equina Syndrome
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Last Updated:04/26/2023