Spinal shock is characterised by -a) Spasticityb) Wastingc) Sensory lossd) urinary retentione) Areflexia
**Core Concept**
Spinal shock is a temporary, reversible condition that occurs after a severe spinal cord injury, characterized by a sudden loss of spinal cord function below the level of the injury. This condition is due to the disruption of spinal cord blood flow, leading to ischemia and subsequent loss of neurological function.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, areflexia, is a hallmark of spinal shock due to the interruption of spinal cord reflexes. Areflexia refers to the absence of reflexes, including the absence of deep tendon reflexes, such as the knee jerk reflex. This is because the spinal cord's ability to transmit signals is disrupted, preventing the normal reflex arcs from functioning. The loss of spinal cord function also leads to sensory loss, but this option is not the most specific characteristic of spinal shock.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Spasticity is a condition characterized by increased muscle tone and stiffness, often seen in patients with spinal cord injuries. However, spasticity typically develops after the acute phase of spinal shock and is not a characteristic of spinal shock itself.
**Option B:** Wasting refers to the atrophy of muscles, which can occur in the long term after a spinal cord injury. However, wasting is not a characteristic of spinal shock, which is a temporary condition.
**Option C:** Sensory loss is a component of spinal shock, but it is not the most specific characteristic. Sensory loss can occur due to various reasons, including compression or damage to the spinal cord.
**Option D:** Urinary retention can occur after a spinal cord injury, but it is not a characteristic of spinal shock. Urinary retention is more commonly associated with the later stages of spinal cord injury.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Spinal shock is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and management. It is essential to recognize the signs of spinal shock, including areflexia, and to provide supportive care, including maintaining a patent airway, breathing, and circulation, until the patient can be evaluated by a specialist.
**Correct Answer:** E. Areflexia