Neoplastic cauda equina syndrome: a neuroimaging-based review
Shelby J Bennett1, Gregory L Katzman1, Raymond P Roos2
1Department of Radiology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA.
Practical Neurology
|October 8, 2015
Summary
Cauda equina syndrome, often caused by disc herniation, can also result from spinal tumors. Early diagnosis through neuroimaging is crucial for preventing permanent neurological damage.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Cauda equina syndrome (CES) involves dysfunction of the nerve roots in the lower spinal canal.
- While commonly caused by herniated discs, CES can also stem from spinal neoplasms.
- Prompt diagnosis is vital to prevent irreversible neurological deficits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review diverse neoplastic causes of cauda equina syndrome.
- To provide a neuroimaging-based perspective on these tumors.
- To highlight clinical features and diagnostic considerations for CES.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on neuroimaging findings of spinal neoplasms affecting the cauda equina.
- Classification of tumors by location: intramedullary, intradural-extramedullary, and extradural.
- Discussion of clinical presentations and diagnostic challenges.
Main Results:
- Neoplastic causes of CES include primary spinal tumors and metastatic disease.
- Tumors are categorized by location: intramedullary (e.g., astrocytoma), intradural-extramedullary (e.g., schwannoma, leptomeningeal metastases), and extradural (e.g., spinal metastases).
- Neuroimaging plays a key role in identifying tumor type and location.
Conclusions:
- Diverse neoplastic entities can cause cauda equina syndrome.
- Awareness of these varied causes and their neuroimaging characteristics is essential for timely diagnosis and management.
- Effective management hinges on accurate identification of the underlying neoplastic process.
