Imaging Review of the Conus Medullaris and Cauda Equina: What Radiologists Should Know

The conus medullaris and the cauda equina are unique parts of the spinal cord, and, although affected by many of the same pathologies found elsewhere in the cord, these structures also present with unique afflictions not seen elsewhere. Here we reviewed the anatomy and embryologic development and abnormalities of the development of the conus medullaris and the cauda equina. We present multitechnique imaging findings of congenital, infectious, inflammatory, vascular, and neoplastic involvement of the conus medullaris and cauda equina. This should be a succinct and central reference for the radiologist in evaluating the conus medullaris and cauda equina.

Learning Objective: Recognize the normal and abnormal imaging appearance of the conus medullaris and the cauda equina, and provide a differential diagnosis for the developmental, infectious, inflammatory, vascular, and neoplastic processes that involve this region.