Medical pathologies of the spinal cord

Spinal cord presentations commonly seen by neurosurgeons suggestive of surgical pathology can be mimicked by many medical conditions. The most common presentations of medical, neurological conditions seen by neurosurgeons include conditions causing acute spastic paraparesis, such as transverse myelitis, and acute flaccid paralysis, such as Guillain–Barré syndrome. Other medical conditions such as motor neuron disease, neuropathy pain syndromes can also mimic radiculopathies and may be referred for a neurosurgical outpatient review. Therefore, a knowledge of these conditions and recognition of some of the key questions to ask during a history is beneficial. Key findings to look for on examination will also help with a timely diagnosis and involvement of the relevant specialist without unnecessary investigations or interventions.