Misinterpretation of Cauda Equina Symptoms

The misinterpretation or misdiagnosis of symptoms of cauda equina syndrome can lead to a lifetime of disability for the patient. It can also lead to a significant claim for compensation for the long-term effects.

Recognising the signs of cauda equina syndrome

When a patient visits their GP with the possible early symptoms of cauda equina syndrome, it is crucial that they are given swift and thorough attention.

A failure to act on the signs of cauda equina syndrome may mean that, instead of recovering any lost function in the lower body, the patient loses complete control of their bladder, bowel and sexual function.

Initial symptoms of cauda equina syndrome can be misinterpreted, often as sciatica, due to the presence of pain in the legs.

Should the patient’s symptoms extend beyond that, however, it may be necessary for the medical professional to make an emergency referral for an MRI at the nearest A&E.

Cauda equina syndrome symptoms

Other symptoms which may be present which would indicate possible damage to the cauda equina nerves at the base of the spine include the following:

• Bilateral leg pain and tingling or numbness (rather than pain and tingling in just one leg)
• Weakness in ankle reflexes
• Loss of sensation in the perineum
• Alteration in sexual function
• Alteration in sensation when urinating
• Loss of sensation around the anus

If a patient is starting to experience any of these additional symptoms, it is vital that they inform their GP. The symptoms listed above suggest that the nerves at the base of the spine may be damaged and are causing the loss of function in the lower body.

If this is the case, the patient may require immediate surgery to remove the pressure on the nerves.

Misdiagnosis and medical negligence

A failure on the part of the GP or A&E practitioner to recognise the symptoms of cauda equina syndrome or to consider that the patient’s symptoms may spread and deteriorate might be considered to have been negligent.

• If a patient exhibiting symptoms of cauda equina syndrome is not referred for an emergency MRI scan, this may be regarded as negligent
• If a patient with early possible symptoms of cauda equina syndrome is not warned of the condition’s red flag symptoms and the need for immediate attendance at A&E, they may be considered to have received substandard care
• If no examination for additional ‘red flag’ symptoms is undertaken in a patient who appears to be exhibiting some of the early signs, this might be regarded as negligent

Speak to a solicitor

If you or a loved one are suffering with the appalling long-term effects of cauda equina syndrome due to a delayed diagnosis, you may wish to consider making a claim for compensation.

Contact us to discuss your situation with a specialist medical negligence solicitor.

Please call us free on 0800 234 3300, from a mobile click to call 01275 334030 or complete our Free Online Enquiry for a no cost, no obligation opinion.

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