Does cauda equina mean horse tail?
The collection of nerves at the end of the spinal cord is known as the cauda equina, due to its resemblance to a horse’s tail. The spinal cord ends at the upper portion of the lumbar (lower back) spine. The cauda equina is the continuation of these nerve roots in the lumbar and sacral region.
What does the cauda equina Latin for horse’s tail represent?
The cauda equina (CE) is a bundle of intradural nerve roots at the end of the spinal cord, in the subarachnoid space distal to the conus medullaris. Cauda is Latin for tail, and equina is Latin for horse (ie, the “horse’s tail”). The nerves in the CE region include lower lumbar and all of the sacral nerve roots.
What is cauda equina in horses?
The spinal cord ends in the lumbar area and continues through the vertebral canal as spinal nerves. Because of its resemblance to a horse’s tail, the collection of these nerves at the end of the spinal cord is called the cauda equina. These nerves send and receive messages to and from the lower limbs and pelvic organs.
What level is cauda equina?
The cauda equina is a group of nerves and nerve roots stemming from the distal end of the spinal cord, typically levels L1-L5 and contains axons of nerves that give both motor and sensory innervation to the legs, bladder, anus, and perineum.
How cauda equina is formed?
The cauda equina is formed by the continuation of nerve fibers beyond the spinal cord. Compression of the cauda equina, such as by a herniated disc, may cause severe pain and numbness in both legs.
Why is cauda equina formed?
What is the purpose of the cauda equina?
The cauda equina is responsible for sensory and motor innervation to the pelvis and lower limbs, as well as bowel and bladder function. If the cauda equina is damaged by inflammation or compression in the low back, symptoms may be severe and may develop quickly.
What is the most common cause of cauda equina syndrome?
Causes of Cauda Equina Syndrome A severe ruptured disk in the lumbar area (the most common cause) Narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis) A spinal lesion or malignant tumor. A spinal infection, inflammation, hemorrhage, or fracture.
How is CES diagnosed?
The diagnosis of CES is mainly based on the symptoms and also by a doctor’s examination. Anyone with possible CES should be seen urgently in hospital. Investigations usually include an MRI scan to confirm the diagnosis. Other investigations may include a CT scan and tests of bladder control.
