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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Cauda Equina Syndrome

Unknown
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Reactive Arthritis

Moderate
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome occurs when the bundle of nerve roots at the lower end of the spinal cord becomes compressed or damaged. These nerve roots control sensation and movement in the legs and help control bladder and bowel function. The condition can develop from a severe disc problem, spinal narrowing, tumor, infection, bleeding or other causes of pressure on the nerve roots. Because permanent nerve damage can occur, suspected cauda equina syndrome is a medical emergency requiring prompt assessment.
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis is a form of joint inflammation that develops after an infection elsewhere in the body, most often involving the digestive or urinary or genital tract. It can cause joint pain, swelling, and stiffness and may sometimes affect the eyes or urinary system. Symptoms may begin after the original infection has improved.

Symptoms

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Facial Drooping Numbness Urinary Incontinence
Only in Right Disease
Back Pain Bone Pain Fever

Causes

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Chronic Disease
Only in Right Disease
Infection

Diagnosis

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Diagnosis is based on the pattern of neurological symptoms and a physical examination, followed by urgent imaging when cauda equina syndrome is suspected. The healthcare provider will assess leg strength, sensation, reflexes and bladder or bowel function. MRI is commonly used to identify compression of the nerve roots and determine the underlying cause. Other imaging or tests may be needed depending on the suspected cause. Prompt diagnosis is important because prolonged compression can result in permanent neurological problems.
Reactive Arthritis
Diagnosis of reactive arthritis is based on the pattern of joint symptoms, physical examination, and evidence of a recent infection. Blood tests may help assess inflammation or identify other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Testing for infections may be performed when appropriate, and imaging or examination of affected joints can provide additional information.

Prevention

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Cauda equina syndrome cannot always be prevented because some causes, such as tumors or sudden severe disc herniation, are not predictable. Reducing the risk of spinal injury through safe lifting practices, appropriate protective equipment and safer driving and recreational activities may help prevent some spinal conditions. People with known spinal disease should follow medical advice and seek prompt evaluation for rapidly worsening back pain, leg weakness, numbness or new bladder and bowel problems.
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis cannot always be prevented, but reducing infections that can trigger it may lower risk. Practicing safer sex, including appropriate barrier protection, can help reduce sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia. Good food safety and hand hygiene can reduce gastrointestinal infections. Prompt evaluation and appropriate treatment of suspected infections may also reduce complications.

Risk Factors

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Risk factors depend on the condition causing nerve compression and may include severe or recurrent lumbar disc disease, narrowing of the spinal canal, spinal tumors, infection, bleeding around the spine and significant lower-back trauma. Previous spinal disorders or procedures may also be relevant. People with new severe lower-back symptoms accompanied by changes in bladder, bowel, leg strength or sensation require urgent medical evaluation.
Reactive Arthritis
Risk factors for reactive arthritis include a recent gastrointestinal or urinary or genital infection and genetic susceptibility. Certain inherited immune-system characteristics may make some people more likely to develop the condition after an infection. A history of infections that can trigger reactive arthritis may therefore increase risk, although most people with these infections do not necessarily develop arthritis.

Treatment

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Reactive Arthritis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.