Following a C5–C6 fracture-dislocation of the cervical spine, a patient has complete motor and sensory loss below C6 bilaterally. However, pain and temperature are also preserved in a saddle distribution. Which spinal cord syndrome is this?

• A Anterior cord syndrome
• B Central cord syndrome ✓
• C Brown-Séquard syndrome
• D Posterior cord syndrome

Explanation

Central cord syndrome is the most common incomplete spinal cord injury syndrome, typically affecting elderly patients with pre-existing cervical spondylosis after hyperextension injuries. It causes disproportionately greater weakness in the upper limbs than the lower limbs (because cervical fibres are more centrally located in the corticospinal tracts), sacral sparing of sensation (perianal and perineal sensation), and bladder dysfunction. Recovery is variable, with lower limbs recovering better than upper limbs.

Reference: Maheshwari Essential Orthopaedics, 6th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.