MedBugs: SAQ #251

Want to track your progress? You can complete this SAQ as a guest, but logging in lets you save attempts, review scores, and see your progress by category. Log in or create an account .

Case: Central cord syndrome and neurogenic shock

A 68-year-old man falls at home sustaining a facial injury. He has bruising to his hands from landing and cervical spine tenderness. He is immobilised appropriately on arrival.

1. Describe the anatomical mechanism that results in central cord syndrome and give the pathologically affected anatomy. 2 marks

2. Outline in broad terms how central cord syndrome presents clinically. 3 marks

In the ED, the patient is found to be profoundly hypotensive with a temperature of 33°C. You suspect he has neurogenic shock.

3. In the context of a multi-injured patient, state the conditions that must be met before the diagnosis of neurogenic shock is made. 4 marks

The patient suffered a permanent T3 level spinal cord injury and a year later presents with sudden onset severe headache, flushing of the face and pallor in their lower limbs. He is profoundly sweaty and has a BP of 220/108. You suspect autonomic dysreflexia.

4. Give six causes involving three different organ systems that could cause autonomic dysreflexia. 3 marks

SAQ Home

SAQ Library

Case: Central cord syndrome and neurogenic shock

1. Describe the anatomical mechanism that results in central cord syndrome and give the pathologically affected anatomy. 2 marks

2. Outline in broad terms how central cord syndrome presents clinically. 3 marks

3. In the context of a multi-injured patient, state the conditions that must be met before the diagnosis of neurogenic shock is made. 4 marks

4. Give six causes involving three different organ systems that could cause autonomic dysreflexia. 3 marks

Update Answers?

🐞 Send Feedback