North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

A 7-year-old German shepherd is presented with hind limb weakness and urinary incontinence. What is the most likely diagnosis?

1. Wobbler syndrome

2. Diskospondylitis

3. Hip dysplasia

4. Cauda equina syndrome

The correct answer is: Cauda equina syndrome

In a 7-year-old German shepherd presenting with hind limb weakness and urinary incontinence, cauda equina syndrome is particularly relevant due to its association with compression of the nerve roots in the lumbosacral region. This condition can result from various causes, including intervertebral disc disease, degeneration, or tumors, leading to compromised nerve function. The clinical signs of hind limb weakness and urinary incontinence directly correlate with the disruption of the nerves that control strength and bladder function. Cauda equina syndrome is characterized by the dysfunction of the nerves that exit the spinal cord at the lower lumbar and sacral levels. The symptoms can often include pain in the lumbar region, weakness in the hind limbs, and loss of control over urination and defecation, which aligns closely with the symptoms observed in this case. Other conditions, while potentially affecting similar anatomical areas or presenting with some overlapping symptoms, would not as directly explain both the hind limb weakness and urinary incontinence in this particular presentation. Wobbler syndrome primarily affects mobility and coordination rather than causing urinary issues, diskospondylitis typically presents with more localized pain and systemic signs rather than distinct hind limb or urinary symptoms, and hip dysplasia primarily leads to lameness and pain,