Which symptom is indicative of cauda equina syndrome?

• A. Lower back pain
• B. Urinary retention
• C. Leg weakness
• D. Flank pain

Answer: (B)

Urinary retention is a key symptom indicative of cauda equina syndrome, a serious neurological condition that occurs due to compression of the cauda equina, which is a bundle of spinal nerves located at the lower end of the spinal cord. The cauda equina innervates the pelvic organs, including the bladder. When this area is compressed, it can disrupt normal function, leading to loss of bladder control and urinary retention.

In contrast, while lower back pain, leg weakness, and flank pain may also be present in various spine-related conditions or injuries, they do not specifically point to cauda equina syndrome. Lower back pain is common in many musculoskeletal disorders, leg weakness can arise from a variety of causes, and flank pain is often associated with kidney issues or other abdominal conditions rather than directly linked to cauda equina compression. Urinary retention, specifically, indicates a level of neurological compromise that is suggestive of this syndrome and requires immediate medical intervention.