Cervical disc prolapse [top]

• Torticollis

• Neck pain

• Posterior prolapse: Pain or numbness in C5-C7 dermatomes; Reduced biceps / supinator reflex

• Anterior prolapse: Leg numbness, weakness leg weakness

Spinal tuberculosis [top]

• Progressive onset of back pain or leg weakness chronic back pain

• Fever is usually absent

• Elevated inflammatory markers

• Can lead to psoas abscess

• Risk factors: Exposure to TB, immunosupression

Spinal abscess [top]

• Progressive onset of back pain or leg weakness chronic back pain

• Fever may be present or absent

• Elevated inflammatory markers

• Risk factors: Spinal surgery, diabetes, lumbar puncture, epidural

Lumbar disc prolapse [top]

• Sudden onset of back pain in association with minor trauma such as lifting or coughing acute back pain

• Large anterior prolapse: Cauda equina syndrome - leg weakness, numbness of perineum, faecal incontinence, urinary retention

• Posterior prolapse: Shooting pain radiating to thigh, calf 'sciatica'