QuestionSBA
QuestionChoice
Polymyalgia rheumatica would typically present with shoulder and hip girdle stiffness. It can also be associated with more systemic symptoms such as fever, anorexia, muscle pains and tiredness.
10025129
e
Polymyalgia rheumatica
QuestionChoice
Cauda equina syndrome can cause bilateral sciatica symptoms, as well as other symptoms like perianal anaesthesia, urinary incontinence or sexual dysfunction. This would be an important differential to rule out in all patients with back pain. However, this is not the most likely diagnosis in this patient's case.
10025126
b
Cauda equina syndrome
QuestionChoice
This clinical picture makes sciatica the most likely diagnosis in this patient. The unilateral shooting pain down the leg associated with tingling and weakness is typical of sciatica. Patients can often have back pain alongside this, but it is not typically as bad as the pain in their legs or feet.
10025125
a
Sciatica
QuestionChoice
Myeloma can present with back pain, but the patient describes the pain going down the back of his leg. This is more typical of sciatica.
10025127
c
Multiple myeloma
QuestionChoice
This option would be more likely with a history of trauma, such as involvement in a road traffic collision. This patient is more likely to be experiencing symptoms of sciatica.
10025128
d
Vertebral fracture
Concept
Chapter
2693
4247
Back Pain
Topic
146
Rheumatology
17423
A 25-year-old builder presents to the GP with leg pain for the last two months. He describes a unilateral shooting pain that travels down the back of his left leg below the knee. He also has pins and needles in this area.

Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
a