Bmjopen 2020 January 10 1 Inline Supplementary Material 1

Supplementary material BMJ Open
Passmedicine questions
Authors
1. Mueez Waqar
2. Jane Wilcock
3. Jayne Garner
4. Benjamin M Davies
5. Mark RN Kotter
Introduction
The following is a set of questions prepared for the degenerative cervical myelopathy
education initiative. We would request a link to our website - www.myelopathy.org, our
website to promote this initiative, below these questions.
Methods
Questions have been prepared as follows:
• Clinical presentation - focussing on differential diagnosis: 5 MCQs, 2 EMQs
• Assessment - focussing on examination and workup: 5 MCQs, 2 EMQs
• Management - focussing on referral pathways and follow-up: 5 MCQs, 2 EMQs
These questions are targeted to the following question banks:

• MRCGP
• MSRA
• Medical finals
Output
The aim of this initiative is to provide data on clinician knowledge on degenerative cervical
myelopathy. We would like to analyse the following metrics based on these questions:
• Distribution of answers on 1st attempt
• Distribution of answers on 2nd attempt
In addition, we would like to compare the correct response rate of this sample to existing
questions in the question-bank along the following themes:
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cauda equina syndrome
• Diabetes mellitus
Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Theme 1: Clinical presentation
A 65-year-old female reports progressive unsteadiness, mild weakness, pain and

paraesthesias in her legs over the last 2-3 months. She reports no symptoms in her
upper limbs and there is no history of trauma. Examination reveals increased lower
limb tone with brisk reflexes. Which of the following is the most likely explanation for
her symptoms?
A. Motor neuron disease

B. Degenerative cervical myelopathy
C. Multiple sclerosis
D. Syringomyelia
E. Cauda equina syndrome
Answer: B
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) refers to cervical spinal cord compression

due to cervical spondylosis. The term replaces CSM (Cervical Spondylotic
Myelopathy). Patients with DCM can present with predominantly lower limb
symptoms. Examination findings, especially early on, are often subtle. DCM is the most
common cause of non-traumatic paraparesis in developed countries and becomes
more common with age [2]; it is estimated to have a prevalence of 5% in over 50-year-
olds [3, 4]. In a series of patients presenting to Neurology outpatients, it was twice as
common as Multiple Sclerosis [2]. Early diagnosis is key to ensuring good clinical
outcomes. Currently most patients wait over 2 years for a diagnosis.
Incorrect options:
• Motor neuron disease is a disease of motor neurons, with mixed upper and lower
motor features. Patients are classically described to have brisk reflexes in wasted
and fasciculating limbs. As a rule, motor symptoms of weakness predominate and
patients do not have sensory findings.
• Multiple sclerosis can also cause paraparesis. As a disease of the central nervous
system, the paraparesis is usually associated with upper motor neuron signs. A first
presentation of multiple sclerosis is most common between the ages of 20 and 40,
younger than this patient. Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy is also more common
with age and more common than MS overall, making that diagnosis more likely.
• Syringomyelia refers to the development of a syrinx in the spinal cord. It presents
with a central cord syndrome, with predominantly upper limb signs. It is a relatively
uncommon condition.
• Cauda equina syndrome results from compression of the cauda equina and
classically includes leg weakness, saddle anaesthesia and sphincter disturbance. It
is usually an acute syndrome with progressive signs. It is also a relatively uncommon
condition.
References:

1. Kjaer P, Leboeuf-Yde C, Korsholm L, Sorensen JS, Bendix T. Magnetic resonance

imaging and low back pain in adults: a diagnostic imaging study of 40-year-old
men and women. Spine. 2005 May 15;30(10):1173–80.
2. Moore AP, Blumhardt LD. A prospective survey of the causes of non-traumatic
spastic paraparesis and tetraparesis in 585 patients. Spinal Cord. 1997
Jun;35(6):361-7.
3. Kovalova I, Kerkovsky M, Kadanka Z, Kadanka Z, Nemec M, Jurova B, et al.
Prevalence and Imaging Characteristics of Non-Myelopathic and Myelopathic
Spondylotic Cervical Cord Compression. Spine. 2016 Aug 9.
4. Bednarik J, Kadanka Z, Dusek L, Kerkovsky M, Vohanka S, Novotny O, et al.
Presymptomatic spondylotic cervical myelopathy: an updated predictive model.
Eur Spine J. 2008 Mar;17(3):421–31.

A 73-year-old male presents with progressively worsening gait and urinary urgency.
He is diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy. Which ONE of the
following is true regarding this condition?
A. Smoking is not a risk factor in isolation

B. Asians can have a different underlying aetiology than caucasians
C. Bowel and bladders symptoms are rare and should prompt consideration of
cauda equina syndrome
D. Most patients present with a classic triad of neck pain, finger paraesthesias and
weak legs
E. Family history is of limited value
Answer: B
Asian populations have a higher rate of ossification of the posterior longitudinal

ligament (OPLL), which can result in myelopathy.
Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) has a number of risk factors, which include
smoking due to its effects on the intervertebral discs (A, false), genetics (option E,
false) and occupation - those exposing patients to high axial loading [1].
The presentation of DCM is very variable (option D, false). Early symptoms are often
subtle and can vary in severity day to day, making the disease difficult to detect
initially. However as a progressive condition, worsening, deteriorating or new
symptoms should be a warning sign.
DCM symptoms can include any combination of [1]:

• Pain (affecting the neck, upper or lower limbs)
• Loss of motor function (loss of digital dexterity, preventing simple tasks such as
holding a fork or doing up their shirt buttons, arm or leg weakness/stiffness leading to
impaired gait and imbalance
• Loss of sensory function causing numbness
• Loss of autonomic function (urinary or faecal incontinence and/or impotence) - these
can occur and do not necessarily suggest cauda equina syndrome in the absence of
other hallmarks of that condition
The most common symptoms at presentation of DCM are unknown, but in one series
50% of patients were initially incorrectly diagnosed and sometimes treated for carpal
tunnel syndrome [2].
References
1. Baron EM, Young WF. Cervical spondylotic myelopathy: a brief review of its
pathophysiology, clinical course, and diagnosis. Neurosurgery. 2007 Jan;60(1 Supp1
1):S35-41.

2. Behrbalk E, Salame K, Regev GJ, Keynan O, Boszczyk B, Lidar Z. Delayed

diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy by primary care physicians. Neurosurg
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.

Stem 1: A 60-year-old gentleman with a background of hypertension and high

cholesterol presents with a long history of neck pain, lower limb stiffness and
urinary hesitancy. Which of the following is most likely?
Stem 2: A 56-year-old gentleman presents with lower limb stiffness and imbalance.
His only past medical history of note is carpal tunnel syndrome that was diagnosed
a year ago on clinical grounds and has been refractory to treatment with splints and
steroid injections. Which of the following is most likely?
A. Cauda equina syndrome

B. Subacute combined degeneration of the cord
C. Degenerative cervical myelopathy
D. Parkinson’s disease
E. Multiple sclerosis
Answer: C
The presentation of degenerative cervical myelopathy [DCM] is variable. Early

symptoms are often subtle and can vary in severity day to day, making the disease
difficult to detect initially. However as a progressive condition, worsening, deteriorating
or new symptoms should be a warning sign.
DCM symptoms can include any combination of [1]:

• Pain (affecting the neck, upper or lower limbs)
• Loss of motor function (loss of digital dexterity, preventing simple tasks such as
holding a fork or doing up their shirt buttons, arm or leg weakness/stiffness leading to
impaired gait, imbalance and
• Loss of sensory function causing numbness
• Loss of autonomic function (urinary or faecal incontinence and/or impotence).
The most common symptoms at presentation of DCM are unknown, but in one series
50% of patients were initially incorrectly diagnosed and sometimes treated for carpal
tunnel syndrome [2].
Other answers:
classically includes leg weakness, saddle anaesthesia and sphincter disturbance. It
is usually an acute syndrome with progressive signs. It does not cause leg stiffness.
• Subacute combined degeneration of the cord results from long-standing vitamin B12
deficiency, classically presenting as a posterior cord syndrome – with impaired
proprioception. It can feature both upper and lower motor neuron signs. B12
deficiency can be associated with several neurological features. These include a
myelopathy (classically the subacute combined degeneration of the cord),
neuropathy and paraesthesias without neurological signs [3]. Subacute combined
degeneration is extremely rare in developed countries, though in tropical countries it
is frequently the commonest cause of non-traumatic myelopathy [4].

• Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease is a tetrad of Tremor, Rigidity, Akinesia and Postural

Instability (this can be remembered using the TRAP mneumonic). In the early stages
pain is not a typical feature and it does not cause numbness.
• Multiple Sclerosis [MS] can have a variable presentation, with both sensory and
motor symptoms and signs. Inflammatory changes are often present at multiple
sites, which can cause symptoms at more than one site; a ‘dissociated sensory loss’,
that is numbness at different and unlinked sites, is a hallmark of MS. Often patients
will recall previous episodes of odd neurological deficits, which resolved. MS
predominantly affects woman (3-4 times common) and usually presents before the
age of 45.
References:
pathophysiology, clinical course, and diagnosis. Neurosurgery. 2007 Jan;60(1
Supp1 1):S35-41.
diagnosis of cervical spondylotic myelopathy by primary care physicians.
Neurosurg Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
3. Kumar N1. Neurologic aspects of cobalamin (B12) deficiency. Handb Clin Neurol.
2014;120:915-26.
4. Pinto WB, de Souza PV, de Albuquerque MV, Dutra LA, Pedroso JL, Barsottini OG.
Clinical and epidemiological profiles of non-traumatic myelopathies. Arq
Neuropsiquiatr. 2016 Feb;74(2):161-5.

Select the most likely diagnosis for the following clinical scenarios. Each option can
be chosen once or not at all.
A. Multiple sclerosis
B. Aortic aneurysm
C. Fractured clavicle
D. Peripheral neuropathy
E. Degenerative cervical myelopathy
F. Median nerve entrapment
G. Ulnar nerve entrapment
H. Lumbar canal stenosis
I. Saturday night palsy
J. Adhesive Capsulitis
1. A 70 year-old man has pain and weakness in both legs on walking. It settles
with rest.
2. A 54 year-old female complains of right hand pain radiating into her thumb,
index and middle finger. It often wakes her up from sleep.
3. A 54 year-old female presents with a loss of dexterity in both hands. She has
been struggling to type at work and use her mobile phone. Her symptoms have
been deteriorating gradually over the preceding months.
Answers
• 1H - lumbar spinal canal stenosis or vascular claudication from peripheral vascular
disease are likely. Peripheral vascular disease is more common, but not an option
here.
• 2F - Carpal tunnel syndrome results from median nerve compression at the wrist,
within the carpal tunnel, and results in lower motor neuron signs, with thenar muscle
wasting and weakness of the LOAF muscles (lateral lumbricals, opponens pollicis,
abductor pollicis brevis and flexor policis brevis). Patients can have paraesthesias in
the median nerve distribution, classically at night. Tinel’s test and Phalen’s test can
be positive.
• 3E - Degenerative cervical myelopathy leads to loss of fine motor function in both
upper limbs. There is a delay in diagnosis of degenerative cervical myelopathy, which
is estimated to be >2 years in some studies [1]. It is most commonly misdiagnosed
as carpal tunnel syndrome and in one study, 43% of patients who underwent surgery
for degenerative cervical myelopathy, had been initially diagnosed with carpal tunnel
syndrome [1].
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.

Select the most likely diagnosis for the following clinical scenarios. Each option can
be chosen once or not at all.
A. Multiple sclerosis
B. Aortic aneurysm
C. Fractured clavicle
D. Peripheral neuropathy
E. Degenerative cervical myelopathy
F. Median nerve entrapment
G. Ulnar nerve entrapment
H. Lumbar canal stenosis
I. Saturday night palsy
J. Adhesive Capsulitis
1. A 60 year-old male presents with clumsy hands. He has been dropping cups
around the house. His wife complains he doesn’t answer his mobile as he
struggles to use it. His symptoms have been gradually deteriorating over the
preceding months.
2. A 32 year-old female presents with a 3 day history of altered sensation on her
left foot and right forearm. On examination she has clonus in both legs and has
hyperreflexia in all limbs.
3. A 45 year-old female presents with stiffness and pain in her left shoulder, which
started around a month ago. She had a similar episode that resolved by itself.
Examination reveals limited external rotation.
Answers
• 1E - Degenerative cervical myelopathy leads to loss of fine motor function in both
upper limbs. There is a delay in diagnosis of degenerative cervical myelopathy, which
is estimated to be >2 years in some studies [1]. It is most commonly misdiagnosed
as carpal tunnel syndrome and in one study, 43% of patients who underwent surgery
for degenerative cervical myelopathy, had been initially diagnosed with carpal tunnel
syndrome [1].
• 2A - Multiple sclerosis (MS) can have a variable presentation, affecting both the
sensory and/or motor systems. Inflammatory changes are often present at multiple
sites, which can cause symptoms at more than one site; a ‘dissociated sensory loss’,
that is numbness at different and unlinked sites, is a hallmark of MS. Often patients
will recall previous episodes of odd neurological deficits, which resolved. MS
predominantly affects woman (3-4 times common) and usually presents before the
age of 45.
• 3J - Adhesive capsulitis or ‘frozen shoulder’ is most common in the fifth or sixth
decade of life. Women are more likely to be affected than men. It is also more
common in patients with diabetes mellitus.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.


Theme 2: Assessment
A 58 year old gentleman presents with left sided paraesthesias affecting his thumb
and first finger. He complains of grip weakness and dropping objects
unintentionally. On examination, there is wasting over the thenar eminence. Which
of the following signs would suggest a diagnosis other than carpal tunnel
syndrome?
A. Positive Hoffman’s sign

B. Thenar muscle wasting
C. Unilateral weakness of pincer grip
D. Positive Phalen’s test
E. Positive Tinnel’s test
Answer: A
A positive Hoffman’s sign is a sign of upper motor neuron dysfunction and points to a
disease of the central nervous system - in this case from the history degenerative
cervical myelopathy [DCM] affecting the cervical spinal cord is most likely. To elicit it,
the examiner should flick the patient’s distal phalanx (usually of the middle finger) to
cause momentary flexion. A positive sign is exaggerated flexion of the thumb.
DCM is often missed initially and there is a delay in the diagnosis of this condition by
>2 years in some studies [1]. This is a problem as delayed treatment limits recovery. It
is most commonly misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome and in one study, 43% of
patients who underwent surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy, had been
initially diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome [1]. DCM is therefore an important
differential in patients suspected to have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome [CTS].
CTS is a disease of the peripheral nervous system, resulting from median nerve
compression at the wrist inside the carpal tunnel. It therefore affects only the aspects
of the hand innervated by the median nerve:
• Sensation; Thumb / Index / Middle Finger. This typically manifests as intermittent
pain or parasthesiae.
• Motor; ‘LOAF Muscles’(lateral lumbricals, opponens pollicis, abductor pollicis brevis
and flexor policis brevis). Motor signs are less commonly seen with presentations of
CTS, but wasting of the thenar eminence may be present.
Tinel’s test and Phalen’s test can be positive, but not always. Both tests aim to
increase the pressure within the carpal tunnel, to try to exacerbate symptoms; Tinel’s
test via tapping on it and Phalen’s test by sustained full flexion of the wrist.
In focal central nervous system disorders, like DCM, examination features are known
to have low sensitivity but high specificity [2]. As a disease of the cervical spinal cord,
DCM can affect the sensory, motor and autonomic nervous systems from the neck
downwards. Motor signs will be upper motor neuron signs such as increased toned,
hyper-reflexia and pyramidal weakness. Note that the neurological signs of DCM are

often subtle initially and easily missed, but as a progressive condition they are likely to
get worse [3]. Therefore detecting early DCM can be challenging. A high index of
suspicion, alongside a comprehensive neurological examination and monitoring for
progression is required.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
2. Nicholl DJ, Appleton JP. Clinical neurology: why this still matters in the 21st century.
Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry 2015;86:229-33.
1):S35-41.

Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding the usefulness of

cervical spine radiographs (X-rays) in the assessment of degenerative cervical
myelopathy (DCM)?
A. Cervical spine radiographs should be obtained in all patients suspected of

having DCM.
B. Where DCM is suspected, AP (anteroposterior), lateral and oblique cervical
spine radiographs should be requested
C. Cervical spine radiographs are a useful first line investigation where a diagnosis
of DCM is suspected
D. Cervical spine radiographs have a low sensitivity but high specificity for DCM
E. Cervical spine radiographs cannot diagnose DCM
Answer: E
Radiographs are of limited value where a diagnosis of degenerative cervical

myelopathy is suspected [1] as they cannot visualise the soft tissue, such as the spinal
cord.
Spine radiographs have a high sensitivity, but limited specificity to diagnose most
spinal conditions. Oblique spine radiographs are usually requested in the lumbar spine
region to pick up defects in the pars interarticularis. They have no value in setting of
DCM.
The finding of spondylosis is common in spinal x-rays of adults over 40 [2]. Its
absence does not exclude neural compression.
Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [DCM] is spinal cord compression due to

degenerative changes of the surrounding spinal structures; e.g. from disc herniation,
ligament hypertrophy or calcification, or osteophytes. Therefore in order to visualise
these structures, a MRI is gold standard and first line.
Again the presence of such degenerative changes is common on MRI; in one study,
57% of patients older than 64 years of age had disc bulging, though only 26% had
spinal cord compression [3]. Therefore a diagnosis of DCM requires the finding of MRI
compression in concert with appropriate signs and symptoms.
References
1. Nouri A, Tetreault L, Singh A, Karadimas SK, Fehlings MG. Degenerative Cervical
Myelopathy: Epidemiology, Genetics, and Pathogenesis. Spine (Phila Pa 1976).
2015 Jun 15;40(12):E675-93.
pathophysiology, clinical course, and diagnosis. Neurosurgery. 2007 Jan;60(1
Supp1 1):S35-41.
3. Teresi LM, Lufkin RB, Reicher MA, Moffit BJ, Vinuela FV, Wilson GM, Bentson JR,
Hanafee WN: Asymptomatic degenerative disk disease and spondylosis of the
cervical spine: MR imaging. Radiology 164:83–88, 1987.


A 67-year-old male undergoes investigations for bilateral paraesthesia in the radial

aspects of both hands, over the thumbs and first fingers. He also has paraesthesia
in the lateral aspects of both forearms and lower limb spasticity. Blood tests reveal
a HBA1c of 46. He undergoes nerve conduction studies and EMG with evidence of
denervation. Which ONE of the following diagnoses is most likely?
A. Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome

B. Degenerative cervical myelopathy
D. Syringomyelia
E. Diabetic neuropathy
Answer: B
This patient’s twitches are probably fibrillations, a sign of lower motor neuron
dysfunction. This is confirmed on the neurophysiology report, with evidence of
denervation. His symptoms are predominantly in the C6 dermatome distribution
bilaterally. Although median nerve compression at the elbow bilaterally could in theory
produce his symptoms, it would be less likely to explain his symptoms given his age.
He is likely to have degenerative cervical myelopathy. This condition is associated with
a delay in diagnosis, estimated to be >2 years in some studies [1].
Patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy can present with a number of problems
[2]:
• Pain/stiffness: affecting the neck, upper and/or lower limbs. L’hermitte’s sign is a
sharp pain radiating down the spine on flexion of the neck, which is classically
associated with multiple sclerosis, though it can occur in cervical myelopathy.
• Loss of function: Clumsiness (e.g. can’t do shirt buttons, hold cup), leg weakness
leading to impaired gait, imbalance and falls.
• Sphincter disturbance: this can range from frequency and urgency to incontinence.
Neurological examination can reveal lower motor neuron signs at the level of the lesion
and upper motor neuron signs below. Note that neurological signs can be subtle and a
high degree of suspicion is needed [2].
The other answers in this question are unlikely for the following reasons:
• A: bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome would not cause forearm symptoms. Carpal
tunnel syndrome results from median nerve compression at the wrist and results in a
lower motor neuron picture, with thenar muscle wasting and weakness of the LOAF
muscles (lateral lumbricals, opponens pollicis, abductor pollicis brevis and flexor
policis brevis). Tinel’s test and Phalen’s test can be positive.
• C: multiple sclerosis (MS) is rare in this age group. MS predominantly affects woman
(3-4 times common) and usually presents before the age of 45. It can have a variable
presentation, affecting both the sensory and/or motor systems. Inflammatory
changes are often present at multiple sites, which can cause symptoms at more than
one site; a ‘dissociated sensory loss’, that is numbness at different and unlinked

sites, is a hallmark of MS. Often patients will recall previous episodes of odd
neurological deficits, which resolved.
• D: Syringomyelia refers to the development of a syrinx in the spinal cord. It presents
with a central cord syndrome, with predominantly upper limb signs. It is a relatively
uncommon condition.
• E: His HBA1c is not within the diagnostic range of diabetes mellitus. Diabetes
mellitus can cause a peripheral neuropathy presenting in a glove and stocking
distribution, as well as neuropathy of peripheral nerves - mononeuritis multiplex.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
1):S35-41.

Which of the following investigations is the most important for diagnosing

degenerative cervical myelopathy ?
A. Nerve conduction studies and EMG

B. MRI Cervical spine
C. CT myelogram
D. CT C-spine
E. AP and lateral C-spine radiographs
Answer: B
An MRI of the cervical spine is the gold standard test where cervical myelopathy is
suspected. It may reveal disc degeneration and ligament hypertrophy, with
accompanying cord signal change.
Other answers:
• CT imaging is reserved for patients with contraindications to magnetic resonance
imaging. A CT myelogram is the first line investigation in this case.
• Radiographs are not clinically useful in the workup of these patients, though
osteoarthritic changes (e.g. osteophytes) can be visible if they are performed.
• Other investigatons (e.g. nerve conduction studies, EMG) may be performed when
the clinical picture is unclear. These can help to exclude mononeuropathies and
other lower motor neuron disorders. However, where there is strong clinical
suspicion and the diagnosis is suspected, an MRI of the cervical spine should be
performed.

A 60-year-old gentleman with a background of lumbar spondylosis and chronic

back pain presents with gradually worsening bilateral upper limb paraesthesias and
leg stiffness. Which one of the investigations below is diagnostic for his likely
condition?
A. Nerve conduction studies and EMG

B. MRI Cervical spine
C. MRI Lumbar Spine
D. CT C-spine
E. AP and lateral C-spine radiographs
Answer: B
The presence of upper limb neurological symptoms indicates that there is pathology
either within his cervical spinal cord or brain. Brain disease is more likely to cause
unilateral problems.
A MRI lumbar spine would therefore not provide a unifying diagnosis here.
In the context of known lumbar degenerative spine, degenerative cervical myelopathy

is the number one differential for this presentation. An MRI of the cervical spine is the
gold standard test where cervical myelopathy is suspected. It may reveal disc
degeneration and ligament hypertrophy, with accompanying cord signal change. It is
not uncommon for patients to suffer from tandem (cervical and lumbar) stenosis.
Other answers:
• CT imaging is reserved for patients with contraindications to magnetic resonance
imaging. A CT myelogram is the first line investigation in this case
• Radiographs are not clinically useful in the workup of these patients, though
osteoarthritic changes (e.g. osteophytes) can be visible if they are performed.
• Other investigatons (e.g. nerve conduction studies, EMG) may be performed when
the clinical picture is unclear. These can help to exclude mononeuropathies and
other lower motor neuron disorders. However, where there is strong clinical
suspicion and the diagnosis is suspected, an MRI of the cervical spine should be
performed.

Select the most likely positive examination finding for the following clinical
scenarios. Each option can be chosen once, more than once or not at all.
A. Kernig’s sign
B. Ankle Brachial Pressure Index
C. Tinel’s test
D. Straight leg raise
E. Tongue fasciculations
F. Hoffman’s sign
G. Limited external rotation of the shoulder
I. Hypothenar wasting
J. Limited internal rotation of the shoulder
1. A 70 year-old male with a background of diabetes and hypertension presents

with pain and weakness in both legs on walking. It settles with rest.
2. A 54 year-old female complains of right hand pain radiating into her thumb,
index and middle finger. It often wakes her up from sleep.
3. A 65 year-old female presents with a loss of dexterity in both hands. She has
been struggling to type at work and use her mobile phone. Her symptoms have
been deteriorating gradually over the preceding months.3
Answers
1 - B: this patient is likely to have peripheral vascular disease [PVD] given his
background risk factors for this condition. The ankle brachial pressure index [ABPI] is
a simple method of assessing the peripheral circulation. It is calculated by dividing
systolic blood pressure in the ankle by the the systolic blood pressure in the arm.
These are equal in health (ABPI = 1). The ABPI is reduced in PVD.
2 - C: this patient is likely to have carpal tunnel syndrome. This occurs due to median
nerve entrapment beneath the flexor retinaculum. Clinical tests to raise carpal tunnel
pressure can exacerbate symptoms and support a diagnosis. One such example is
Tinel’s test, includes tapping over the volar surface of the wrist joint i.e. over the carpal
tunnel, may reproduce paraesthesias. A normal Tinel’s test does not exclude carpal
tunnel syndrome.
3 - F: this patient is likely to have degenerative cervical myelopathy [DCM], which is
associated with upper motor neuron signs. Hoffman’s sign is elicited by flicking the
distal phalaynx of the middle finger to cause momentary flexion. A positive result is
exaggerated flexion of the terminal phalanyx of the thumb. Patients with DCM often
have subtle signs that are easily missed [1], but as a progressive condition, these are
likely to get worse [2]. Whilst the sensitivity of signs is low (i.e. their absence does not
rule out a problem), their specificity is high (i.e. there will be a problem). Therefore, in
order to diagnose early DCM and improve patient outcomes, a high index of suspicion,
alongside a 4comprehensive neurological examination and monitoring for progression
is required.
Other signs mentioned:

• Kernig’s sign refers to painful knee extension, from a position of hip flexion and knee
flexion. It suggest meningeal irritation e.g. meningitis, subarachnoid haemorrhage.
• Straight leg raise: this is positively associated with radicular pathology such as disc
herniation. The patient feels pain in the back when the leg is raised between 30-60
degrees.
• Limited external rotation is classically found in adhesive capsulitis. Patients have
global restriction of shoulder movements, in at least two axes, though external
rotation is usually the most affected and painful.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
1):S35-41.

Select the most likely positive examination finding for the following clinical
scenarios. Each option can be chosen once, more than once or not at all.
A. Kernig’s sign
B. Ankle Brachial Pressure Index
C. Tinel’s test
D. Straight leg raise
E. Tongue fasciculations
F. Hoffman’s sign
G. Limited external rotation of the shoulder
I. Hypothenar wasting
J. Limited internal rotation of the shoulder
preceding months.
2. A 32 year-old female presents with a 3 day history of altered sensation of her
left foot and right forearm. She had an episode of visual loss a few months ago
and says her friends have noted her eyes be flickery and jerky.
Answers
1 - F: this patient is likely to have degenerative cervical myelopathy [DCM], which is
associated with upper motor neuron signs. Hoffman’s sign is elicited by flicking the
distal phalaynx of the middle finger to cause momentary flexion. A positive result is
exaggerated flexion of the terminal phalanyx of the thumb. Patients with DCM often
have subtle signs that are easily missed [1], but as a progressive condition, these are
likely to get worse [2]. Whilst the sensitivity of signs is low (i.e. their absence does not
rule out a problem), their specificity is high (i.e. there will be a problem). Therefore, in
order to diagnose early DCM and improve patient outcomes, a high index of suspicion,
alongside a comprehensive neurological examination and monitoring for progression is
required.
2 - F: this patient is likely to have Multiple Sclerosis (MS). As a disease of the central
nervous system, MS is usually associated with only upper motor neuron signs such as
Hoffman’s sign (see above). The patient’s visual loss was probably secondary to optic
neuritis, a common presentation of MS. Cerebellar signs are particularly common with
MS and include nystagmus, which is likely to be the jerky eye movements noted by her
friends.
3 - G: this patient is likely to have adhesive capsulitis. Patients have global restriction
of shoulder movements, in at least two axes, though external rotation is classically
described as the most affected and painful.
Other signs mentioned:

• Kernig’s sign refers to painful knee extension, from a position of hip flexion and knee
flexion. It suggest meningeal irritation e.g. meningitis, subarachnoid haemorrhage.

• Straight leg raise: this is positively associated with radicular pathology such as disc
herniation. The patient feels pain in the back when the leg is raised between 30-60
degrees.
• The ankle brachial pressure index [ABPI] is a simple method of assessing the
peripheral circulation. It is calculated by dividing systolic blood pressure in the ankle
by the the systolic blood pressure in the arm. These are equal in health (ABPI = 1).
The ABPI is reduced in peripheral vascular disease.
• Tinel’s test includes tapping over the volar surface of the wrist joint i.e. over the
carpal tunnel. This can reproduce paraesthesias in patients with carpal tunnel
syndrome.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
1):S35-41.

Theme 3: Management and follow-up
A 75-year old gentleman presents with a short history of neck pain, paraesthesia in
his finger tips and progressive leg weakness. Following a MRI scan of his spine, he
is diagnosed with degenerative cervical myelopathy due to a C4/5 disc prolapse.
Which of the following is the most appropriate management?
A. Cervical decompressive surgery

B. Cervical nerve root injection
C. Analgesia and referral to physiotherapy
D. Analgesia and review in 4 weeks time
E. Analgesia, a hard cervical collar and review in 4 weeks
Answer: A
All patients with degenerative cervical myelopathy should be urgently referred for
assessment by specialist spinal services (neurosurgery or orthopaedic spinal surgery).
This is due to the importance of early treatment. The timing of surgery is important, as
any existing spinal cord damage can be permanent. Early treatment (within 6 months
of diagnosis) offers the best chance of a full recovery but at present, most patients are
presenting too late. In one study, patients averaged over 5 appointments before
diagnosis, representing >2 years [1].
Currently, decompressive surgery is the only effective treatment. It has been shown to
prevent disease progression. Close observation is an option for mild stable disease,
but anything progressive or more severe requires surgery to prevent further
deterioration. Physiotherapy should only be initiated by specialist services, as
manipulation can cause more spinal cord damage.
Prompt diagnosis and onward referral are therefore key to ensuring good outcome for
your patients. There are national initiatives to raise awareness of the condition to try
and improve referral times (www.myelopathy.org). All of the other listed options in this
question do not control the patient’s primary pathology.
References:
1. Behrbalk E, Salame K, Regev GJ, et al. Delayed diagnosis of cervical spondylotic
myelopathy by primary care physicians. Neurosurg Focus 2013;35:E1.
doi:10.3171/2013.3.FOCUS1374

A 65-year old gentleman with a background of osteoarthritis and previous cervical

laminectomy for degenerative cervical myelopathy presents with a 2-month history
of worsening gait instability and urinary urgency. Which of the following is the most
likely explanation for his symptoms?
A. Transverse myelitis
B. Recurrent degenerative cervical myelopathy
D. Cauda equina syndrome
E. Spinal metastases
Answer: B
• Postoperatively, patients with cervical myelopathy require ongoing follow-up as

pathology can “recur” at adjacent spinal levels, which were not treated by the initial
decompressive surgery. This is called adjacent segment disease. Furthermore,
surgery can change spinal dynamics increasing the likelihood of other levels being
affected. Patients sometimes develop mal-alignment of the spine, including kyphosis
and spondylolisthesis, and this can also affect the spinal cord. All patients with
recurrent symptoms should be evaluated urgently by specialist spinal services.
• Transverse myelitis usually presents more acutely than in this case, with a sensory
level and upper motor neuron signs below the level affected. It can occur in patients
with multiple sclerosis or Devic’s disease (neuromyelitis optica). These patients tend
to also have features such as optic neuritis.
classically includes leg weakness, saddle anaesthesia and sphincter disturbance.
This gentleman’s history is much more likely to be in keeping with recurrent cervical
myelopathy, given his background and given the subacute presentation
• Spinal metastases are uncommon, especially in a patient without a known primary.
Given previous DCM, recurrence is more likely.

A 70 year old man has decompressive surgery for degenerative cervical

myelopathy. Three years later he presents with neck pain and hand paraesthesias.
Which one of the following management strategies is recommended?
A. Trial of neuropathic analgesia and cervical nerve root injections

B. Investigate with nerve conduction studies and EMG in the first instance
C. Urgent AP/lateral cervical spine radiographs as an MRI scan is contraindicated
D. Urgent referral to spinal surgery or neurosurgery
E. Refer to physiotherapy services
Answer: D
Postoperatively, patients with cervical myelopathy require ongoing follow-up as

pathology can “recur” at adjacent spinal levels, which were not treated by the initial
decompressive surgery.
Recurrent symptoms should be treated with a high degree of suspicion. Although

peripheral neuropathy can occur in any patient, this should not be the diagnosis that is
the most strongly suspected as delays in diagnosis and treatment of DCM affect
outcomes. Therefore, B is false.
All patients with recurrent symptoms should be evaluated urgently by specialist spinal
services (A and E, false). Axial spine imaging is necessary and a MRI scan is first line.
In patients unable to to have a MRI, CT or CT myelogram may be considered. AP and
lateral radiographs are of limited use when myelopathy is suspected (C, false).
References
1. Kong L, Cao J, Wang L, Shen Y. Prevalence of adjacent segment disease following
cervical spine surgery: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis.
Medicine (Baltimore). 2016 Jul;95(27):e4171.

A 65-year-old gentleman is referred to neurology outpatients with arm pain,

stiffness and imbalance. Following investigations he is diagnosed with degenerative
cervical myelopathy. Unfortunately, he misses his next outpatient clinic due to
admission with acute coronary syndrome. He attends his GP 2 months later and
mentions his ongoing neurological symptoms. Which of the following is the most
important next step in his care?
A. Refer to spinal surgery or neurosurgery

B. Refer for cervical nerve root injections
C. Commence neuropathic analgesia
D. Reassure the patient of his diagnosis
E. Refer for physiotherapy
Answer: A
Management of patients with cervical myelopathy should be by specialist spinal

services (neurosurgery or orthopaedic spinal surgery). Decompressive surgery is the
mainstay of treatment and has been shown to stop disease progression (B, false).
Close observation is an option for mild stable disease, but anything progressive or
more severe requires surgery to prevent further deterioration. Pre-operative
physiotherapy should only be initiated by specialist services, as manipulation can
cause more spinal cord damage.
The timing of surgery is important, as any existing spinal cord damage can be
permanent. Treatment within 6 months offers the best chance of making a full
recovery. At present most patients wait more than 2 years for a diagnosis [1].
Other incorrect options:

• Neuropathic analgesia is important for symptomatic relief but will not prevent further
cord damage.
• Physiotherapy does not replace surgical opinion, it can in fact cause more spinal
cord damage in patients yet to receive surgical treatment. It should therefore only
be initiated by specialist services.


A 67-year old male recently attended A&E, with a 3 month history of bilateral
paraesthesias and twitching affecting the thumb, first finger and lateral forearm. He
denied any trauma. A MRI scan of his spine was performed and revealed cervical
canal stenosis with mild cord compression. He was discharged and advised to see
his GP for follow-up. Which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in
management?
A. Refer to spinal surgery services

B. Refer for locally commissioned cervical root injections and review after 6 weeks
C. Enlist on the weekly minor ops clinic for carpal tunnel decompression
D. Commence neuropathic analgesia in the first instance and consider surgical
evaluation if this does not work
E. Refer to physiology services and review in 6 weeks
Answer: A
Bilateral median nerve dysfunction is very suggestive of a diagnosis of degenerative

cervical myelopathy (DCM) rather than bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome (option C).
DCM should be suspected in elderly patients presenting with limb neurology. His
twitches are probably fibrillations, a sign of lower motor neuron dysfunction.
Degenerative cervical myelopathy is associated with a delay in diagnosis, estimated to

be >2 years in some studies [1]. It is most commonly misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel
syndrome and in one study, 43% of patients who underwent surgery for degenerative
cervical myelopathy, had been initially diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome [1].
Management of these patients should be by specialist spinal services (neurosurgery or
orthopaedic spinal surgery). Decompressive surgery is the mainstay of treatment and
has been shown to stop disease progression. Physiotherapy and analgesia does not
replace surgical opinion, though they may be used alongside (options D and E). Nerve
root injections do not have a role in management (option B).


Select the best management option for the following clinical scenarios. Each option
can be chosen once, more than once or not at all.
A) Arrange X-rays of the cervical spine

B) Refer to pain clinic
C) Trial of analgesia and re-review
D) Refer to spinal surgery
E) Refer for physiotherapy
F) Lifestyle modification and co-morbidity optimisation
G) Trial of a cervical collar
H) Refer for a minor ops procedure, division of flexor retinaculum
I) Refer to neurology
J) Refer to elderly care medicine
K) Refer to vascular surgery
1. A 70 year-old male with a background of diabetes and hypertension presents

with pain and weakness in both legs on walking. It settles with rest. His most
recent HBA1c is 56 and an ankle-brachial pressure index is calculated as 0.7.
2. A 35 year-old female who is 30 weeks pregnant complains of right hand pain
radiating into her thumb, index and middle finger. It often wakes her up from
sleep.
3. A 65 year-old female presents with neck pain and loss of dexterity in both
hands. She has been struggling to type at work and use her mobile phone. Her
symptoms have been deteriorating gradually over the preceding months.
Answers
1 - F: this patient has peripheral vascular disease, as evident by his ankle-brachial
pressure index (ABPI). NICE guidance suggests that first line management should
include lifestyle modification such as smoking cessation, weight loss, lipid modification,
optimisation of diabetes mellitus/hypertension and antiplatelet therapy. A supervised
exercise programme can also be arranged. Local guidelines vary on when referral to
specialist care is needed, but typically this would be where conservative treatment fails
after 3 months or the ABPI is below a defined threshold (e.g. <0.6).
2 - E: this patient is likely to have carpal tunnel syndrome. This occurs due to median
nerve entrapment beneath the flexor retinaculum. It is more common in pregnant
women due to the increase in oedema. NICE clinical knowledge summaries (CKS)
recommend lifestyle measures (e.g. wrist ergonomic devices at work), as well as wrist
splints (usually prescribed by physiotherapists), corticosteroid injections or referral for
surgical management. Wrist splints can be helpful for nighttime symptoms, as in her
case. Corticosteroid injections require local expertise that may or may not be present.
3 - D: this patient is likely to have degenerative cervical myelopathy. DCM is often
missed initially and there is a delay in the diagnosis of this condition by >2 years in
some studies [1]. Patients have predominantly upper motor neuron signs such as
increased toned, hyper-reflexia and pyramidal weakness. Neurological signs are often
subtle initially and easily missed, but as a progressive condition they are likely to get
worse [2]. Management of these patients should be by specialist spinal services

(neurosurgery or orthopaedic spinal surgery). An MRI scan is required for diagnosis.

All patients should be assessed by a spinal surgeon.
References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
1):S35-41.

Select the best management option for the following clinical scenarios. Each option
can be chosen once, more than once or not at all.
A) Arrange X-rays of the cervical spine

B) Refer to pain clinic
C) Trial of analgesia and re-review
D) Refer to spinal surgery
E) Refer for physiotherapy
F) Lifestyle modification and co-morbidity optimisation
G) Trial of a cervical collar
H) Refer for a minor ops procedure, division of flexor retinaculum
I) Refer to neurology
J) Refer to elderly care medicine
K) Refer to vascular surgery
preceding months.
2. A 32 year-old female presents with a 3 day history of altered sensation on her
left foot and right forearm. She had an episode of visual blurring in her right eye
a few months ago which resolved after a few days. Examination reveals brisk
reflexes.
Examination reveals global restriction of shoulder movement, particularly
external rotation.
Answers
1 - D: this patient is likely to have degenerative cervical myelopathy. DCM is often
missed initially and there is a delay in the diagnosis of this condition by >2 years in
some studies [1]. Patients have predominantly upper motor neuron signs such as
increased toned, hyper-reflexia and pyramidal weakness. Neurological signs are often
subtle initially and easily missed, but as a progressive condition they are likely to get
worse [2]. Management of these patients should be by specialist spinal services
(neurosurgery or orthopaedic spinal surgery). An MRI scan is required for diagnosis.
All patients should be assessed by a spinal surgeon.
2 - I: this patient is likely to have Multiple Sclerosis. Her visual loss was probably
secondary to optic neuritis, a common ophthalmological association with multiple
sclerosis. She should be referred to neurology.
3 - C: this patient is likely to have adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder). Patients have
global restriction of shoulder movements, in at least two axes, though external rotation
is classically described as the most affected and painful. Management of frozen
shoulder is controversial and there is not much evidence to inform practice. In general,
alternative diagnoses should be excluded and pain relief optimised. Gentle shoulder
movement is encouraged and there is limited evidence for physiotherapy.

References:
Focus. 2013 Jul;35(1):E1.
1):S35-41.

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Supplementary material BMJ Open

These questions are targeted to the following question banks:

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Theme 1: Clinical presentation

A 65-year-old female reports progressive unsteadiness, mild weakness, pain and

A. Motor neuron disease

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) refers to cervical spinal cord compression

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

1. Kjaer P, Leboeuf-Yde C, Korsholm L, Sorensen JS, Bendix T. Magnetic resonance

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A. Smoking is not a risk factor in isolation

Asian populations have a higher rate of ossification of the posterior longitudinal

DCM symptoms can include any combination of [1]:

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

2. Behrbalk E, Salame K, Regev GJ, Keynan O, Boszczyk B, Lidar Z. Delayed

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Stem 1: A 60-year-old gentleman with a background of hypertension and high

A. Cauda equina syndrome

The presentation of degenerative cervical myelopathy [DCM] is variable. Early

DCM symptoms can include any combination of [1]:

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

• Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease is a tetrad of Tremor, Rigidity, Akinesia and Postural

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A. Positive Hoffman’s sign

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding the usefulness of

A. Cervical spine radiographs should be obtained in all patients suspected of

Radiographs are of limited value where a diagnosis of degenerative cervical

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy [DCM] is spinal cord compression due to

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A 67-year-old male undergoes investigations for bilateral paraesthesia in the radial

A. Bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Which of the following investigations is the most important for diagnosing

A. Nerve conduction studies and EMG

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A 60-year-old gentleman with a background of lumbar spondylosis and chronic

A. Nerve conduction studies and EMG

In the context of known lumbar degenerative spine, degenerative cervical myelopathy

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

1. A 70 year-old male with a background of diabetes and hypertension presents

Other signs mentioned:

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Other signs mentioned:

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

Theme 3: Management and follow-up

A. Cervical decompressive surgery

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A 65-year old gentleman with a background of osteoarthritis and previous cervical

• Postoperatively, patients with cervical myelopathy require ongoing follow-up as

Waqar M, et al. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e028455. doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028455

A 70 year old man has decompressive surgery for degenerative cervical