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Cauda equina syndrome

Cauda equina (CES) is a condition that occurs when the bundle of nerves below the end of the spinal cord known as the cauda equina is damaged. Signs and symptoms include low back pain, pain that radiates down the leg, numbness around the anus, and loss of bowel or control. Onset may be rapid or gradual.

Underlined words are explained — tap any of them.

Symptoms — what it feels like

  • ·Low back pain, pain that radiates down the leg, numbness around the anus, loss of bowel or control

Causes — why it happens

  • ·Disc herniation, spinal , cancer, , epidural , epidural hematoma

How it's found

  • ·Medical (MRI, CT scan)

Treatment

  • · (laminectomy)

Outlook

  • ·20% risk of poor outcome
Plain-language summary adapted from Wikipedia. Not medical advice.