Abstract
Introduction
The authors recognised that patients presenting to the Orthopaedic Spinal Rapid Access Service with symptoms and or signs of cauda equina syndrome may not have the diagnosis confirmed radiologically. Altered sensation in the ‘saddle area’, bilateral sciatica, urinary incontinence or retention, altered bowel habit, and sexual dysfunction are well recognised symptoms of cauda equina syndrome. Recognised side-effects of neuropathic medications commonly prescribed for radicular pain include: altered sensation, urinary incontinence or retention, and sexual dysfunction. We have undertaken a retrospective cohort analysis in order to identify the relationship between prescribed medications and presenting symptoms and signs.
Method
151 patients were referred to the service within a 6 month period. Case notes of 34 patients presenting with symptoms and or objective signs of CES in absence of positive radiological findings were reviewed. Data collected included the patient's age, sex, prescribed medications and presenting symptoms.
Results
Of these 34, 9(26%) presented with altered bladder function and ‘saddle area’ sensation and 25(74%) with isolated bladder symptoms. Mean age was 47 in both female and males, 26 females and 8 males. 16(47%) were taking neuropathic medications, 7(22%) anti-depressants and 9(28%) anti-convulsant medications.
Conclusion
16(47%) of patients presenting with CES in the absence of radiological evidence were prescribed neuropathic medications with known side effects that may contribute to their symptoms. Therefore clinicians should take due consideration of prescribed medications as a possible cause of CES signs and symptoms. Further work is required to analyse data from a larger patient population in order to identify if particular medications carry a higher risk.
Conflicts of interest: No conflicts of interest
Sources of funding: No funding obtained
