Which of the following is a S/S of tethered spinal cord?

Prepare for your Neural Tube Defects Myelomeningocele/Spina Bifida test with detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each query is supplemented with hints and explanations. Ace your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a S/S of tethered spinal cord?

Explanation:
Rapidly progressive scoliosis is a warning sign of tethered spinal cord because as the spine grows, the abnormally attached cord is stretched, leading to an acceleration in scoliosis alongside other neurological changes. Tethered cord syndrome also presents with gait disturbances, leg weakness or sensory changes, back pain, and bowel or bladder dysfunction due to nerve involvement. The other options don’t fit: improving gait with therapy would argue against a tethered cord, decreased urination frequency isn’t typical (neurogenic bladder usually causes incontinence, urgency, or retention), and normal muscle tone wouldn’t reflect the expected motor changes.

Rapidly progressive scoliosis is a warning sign of tethered spinal cord because as the spine grows, the abnormally attached cord is stretched, leading to an acceleration in scoliosis alongside other neurological changes. Tethered cord syndrome also presents with gait disturbances, leg weakness or sensory changes, back pain, and bowel or bladder dysfunction due to nerve involvement. The other options don’t fit: improving gait with therapy would argue against a tethered cord, decreased urination frequency isn’t typical (neurogenic bladder usually causes incontinence, urgency, or retention), and normal muscle tone wouldn’t reflect the expected motor changes.

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