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Cauda equina syndrome complicating ankylosing spondylitis.
M J Mitchell1, D J Sartoris, D Moody
1Department of Radiology, Veterans Administration Medical Center, San Diego.
Radiology
|May 1, 1990
Summary
Cauda equina syndrome is a rare complication of ankylosing spondylitis, often presenting with sensory loss and sphincter issues. Characteristic imaging findings include caudal sac enlargement and arachnoid diverticula.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
- Radiology
Background:
- Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is an uncommon complication of ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
- The exact pathogenesis of CES in AS remains poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and radiologic findings in patients with cauda equina syndrome associated with ankylosing spondylitis.
Main Methods:
- Case series describing five patients.
- Clinical assessment of neurological deficits.
- Radiologic evaluation including myelography and computed tomography (CT).
Main Results:
- Typical findings include sensory impairment in lower limbs/perineum and sphincter disturbances.
- Motor impairment and pain were less frequent.
- Characteristic imaging findings: caudal sac enlargement, dorsal arachnoid diverticula eroding spinal structures.
Conclusions:
- CES in AS presents with specific neurological and imaging features.
- Potential pathogenetic mechanisms include demyelination, post-irradiation ischemia, or spinal arachnoiditis.