Which of the following is a symptom of cauda equina syndrome?

Saddle anesthesia is a classic symptom of cauda equina syndrome. This condition arises from compression of the cauda equina, a bundle of spinal nerves at the lower end of the vertebral column. Saddle anesthesia refers to loss of sensation in the areas that would come into contact with a saddle—specifically, the inner thighs, buttocks, and perineum. This specific sensory loss is significant as it may also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as bowel or bladder dysfunction, which are indicative of serious neurological compromise requiring urgent medical attention.

Other symptoms mentioned in the choices, such as exophthalmos (protrusion of the eyes) and heat intolerance, are not associated with cauda equina syndrome but may pertain to different medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or multiple sclerosis, respectively. Similarly, weight gain does not correlate with the symptomatology of cauda equina syndrome and is not indicative of nerve root compression in that specific area. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for recognizing and diagnosing cauda equina syndrome promptly.