A 55-year-old man presents with low back pain, urinary retention, saddle anaesthesia and reduced anal sphincter tone on examination. He also has bilat...

Question

A 55-year-old man presents with low back pain, urinary retention, saddle anaesthesia and reduced anal sphincter tone on examination. He also has bilateral leg weakness. What is the most appropriate immediate management?

Accepted Answer

Arrange urgent MRI of the lumbosacral spine and neurosurgical consultation

Answer

Reassure and commence physiotherapy

Answer

Start NSAIDs and review in 2 weeks

Answer

Order plain lumbar spine X-rays only

Answer

Refer to pain clinic for chronic pain management

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Cauda equina syndrome

A 55-year-old man presents with low back pain, urinary retention, saddle anaesthesia and reduced anal sphincter tone on examination. He also has bilateral leg weakness. What is the most appropriate immediate management?