International Framework For Red Flags For Potential Serious Spinal Pathologies

[ position statement ]
LAURA M. FINUCANE, MSc, BSc, FCSP, FMACP1 • ARON DOWNIE, MPhil, BSc, MChiro2,3
CHRISTOPHER MERCER, MSc, Grad Dip Phys, PG Cert (Clin Ed), FCSP, FMACP4 • SUSAN M. GREENHALGH, PhD, MA, Phys FCSP5,6
WILLIAM G. BOISSONNAULT, PT, DPT, DHSc7 • ANNELIES L. POOL-GOUDZWAARD, PT, PhD, MT, MSc Psych8
JASON M. BENECIUK, PT, DPT, PhD, MPH9,10 • RACHEL L. LEECH, MSc, BSc6 • JAMES SELFE, DSc, PhD, MA, Grad Dip Phys, FCSP6,11
International Framework for Red Flags

for Potential Serious Spinal Pathologies
I
dentifying serious pathology as the cause of a person’s musculoskeletal skeletal services can play an important
Downloaded from www.jospt.org at on June 4, 2020. For personal use only. No other uses without permission.
presentation is complex. Red flags have historically been used to role in early identification of serious pa-
help clinicians identify serious spinal pathology, and the majority thology, ensuring that people achieve the
best possible outcome. The prevalence of
of guidelines recommend the use of red flags. However, guidelines
serious pathology will vary depending on
are not consistent about which red flags should be considered when
Copyright © ${year} Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy®. All rights reserved.
where in the clinical pathway the clini-

examining people seeking care for musculoskeletal disorders. This cian has contact with the person. Spinal
has led to confusion and inconsistency in the management of people surgeons likely see more cases of serious
when there is suspicion of serious pathol- can masquerade as musculoskeletal spi- pathology than general practitioners do,
ogy, and, in some cases, to unnecessary nal conditions. The framework has been and physical therapists probably see a
and worrying medical tests or false reas- informed by available evidence and aug- number in between, depending on where
surance that there is no serious pathology. mented by a formal consensus process they are on their clinical pathway. Thera-
We aim to provide clinicians with a that included academics and clinicians pists working at an advanced-practice
more standardized and consistent ap- involved in the management of musculo- level are likely to see more serious pa-
proach to identifying people with po- skeletal conditions. thology, as the populations they serve
Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy®
tential serious spinal pathology. This This framework aims to support a are likely to have more complex presen-
framework has been developed by re- variety of health professionals, irrespec- tations.86 Clinicians must consider the
searchers and clinicians to provide a tive of experience, who provide care for context within which red flags exist, and
pragmatic approach for clinicians to people with musculoskeletal spinal con- clinically reason the relevance of the in-
screen for serious spinal pathology that ditions. Clinicians working in musculo- formation gathered to determine wheth-
er any action is required.
U SYNOPSIS: The International Federation of been used by clinicians to identify serious spinal
Orthopaedic Manipulative Physical Therapists pathology. Currently, there is an absence of high-
quality evidence for the diagnostic accuracy of most
Person-Centered Care
(IFOMPT) led the development of a framework to
help clinicians assess and manage people who may red flags. This framework is intended to provide a Working with people with possible seri-
have serious spinal pathology. While rare, serious clinical-reasoning pathway to clarify the role of red ous pathology can be challenging, and
spinal pathology can have devastating and life- flags.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2020;50(7):xxx-xxx. a collaborative approach is essential. A
changing or life-limiting consequences, and must Epub 21 May 2020. doi:10.2519/jospt.2020.9971
possible diagnosis of serious pathology
be identified early and managed appropriately. Red U KEY WORDS: cauda equina syndrome, clinical can be extremely worrying for people in
flags (signs and symptoms that might raise suspi- reasoning, malignancy, spinal fracture, spinal
cion of serious spinal pathology) have historically infection regard to their families and careers. Peo-
ple must be involved in decision making
1
Sussex MSK Partnership, Brighton, United Kingdom. 2Department of Chiropractic, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, North Ryde, Australia. 3Institute for
Musculoskeletal Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. 4Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Chichester, United Kingdom. 5Bolton
NHS Foundation Trust, Bolton, United Kingdom. 6Department of Health Professions, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom. 7American Physical Therapy
Association, Alexandria, VA. 8Department of Human Movement Sciences, Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
9
Department of Physical Therapy, College of Public Health and Health Professions, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. 10Brooks Rehabilitation, Jacksonville, FL. 11Physical Therapy
Department, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Pori, Finland. The following organizations provided financial support for the development and dissemination of this framework:
the Canadian Academy of Manipulative Physiotherapy, Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, International Maitland Teachers Association, Musculoskeletal Association of Chartered
Physiotherapists, Private Physiotherapy Educational Foundation, and Swiss Association for Orthopaedic Manipulative Physiotherapy. The authors certify that they have no affiliations
with or financial involvement in any organization or entity with a direct financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in the article. Address correspondence to Laura
Finucane, Sussex MSK Partnership, 177 Preston Road, BN1 6AG Brighton, UK. E-mail: laura.finucane@nhs.net t Copyright ©2020 Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy®
journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy | ahead of print | 1

about their care, even when faced with a tentially life-changing conditions and, and has been coordinated by researchers
serious diagnosis. Shared decision mak- in some cases, being sent for further in- at Manchester Metropolitan University.
ing is essential to ensure that individu- vestigations. When asking about subjects Due to a paucity of primary evidence, the
als are supported to make decisions that such as previous history of cancer, it is framework has been developed by expert
are right for them. Using a collaborative particularly important to offer appropri- clinicians’ interpretation of the highest-
process, the clinician should highlight ate emotional support and, when needed, quality evidence available.
the treatment options, evidence, risks, help patients find other services that can
and benefits and, together with the per- offer further support. Key Term: Red Flags
son, seek to understand how these fit Red flags are signs and symptoms that
with that person’s circumstances, goals, How an International Framework raise suspicion of serious spinal pathol-
values, and beliefs.56 Can Help Clinicians ogy. Until now, there has been little guid-
This is an internationally agreed-on ance on their use and they have been left
Experts by Experience: How framework to aid early assessment and to individual interpretation. For spinal
to Use This Framework initial management of people who pre pathology, 163 signs and symptoms have
Clear and open communication with sent with potential serious spinal pathol- been reported as red flags,32 includ-
people with potential serious pathology ogy. These conditions, while considered ing 119 symptoms from the individual’s
is vital. People presenting with spinal rare, can lead to devastating and life- history and 44 signs from the physical
pain may have no concept that their changing/life-limiting consequences for examination.
bladder or bowel function might be af- people. The neurological function and The high number of red flags pre
fected, or that the spinal pain could be quality of life of people with metastatic sents a challenge in terms of their every-
caused by serious pathologies such as in- spinal cord compression (MSCC) can be day practical utility. Few red flags, when
fection or malignancy. Providing the rea- preserved with early diagnosis, by facili- used in isolation, are informative. Red
son for the questions in the framework is tating rapid access to appropriate treat- flags used in combination have prom-
an important aspect of the consultation, ment, reduction in nerve damage, and ise,35 but further validation studies are
as some of these questions may seem ir- maintenance of spinal stability.32 Sub- required. There is a lack of high-quality
relevant to a person who presents with stantial litigation costs can be incurred evidence for the diagnostic accuracy of
back pain. by health care providers if serious spi- red flag tests,20,34 and the evidence sup-
Effective communication about red nal pathology is not identified early and ports only a limited number of red flags
flags is vital. People can become worried managed appropriately. Litigation re- to raise suspicion of serious pathology.
before an appointment, especially if they lating to cauda equina syndrome (CES) There is no consensus on which red flags
have seen something worrying on televi- alone accounted for £25 million ($40 are most useful to identify serious spinal
sion or the internet, heard a story from a million) in claims against the National pathology or how they should be used in
friend or relative, or experienced medical Health Service in the United Kingdom the clinical setting.82
misdiagnosis. from 2010 to 2015.54 Despite the problems, red flag tests
Provide reassurance about why you This international framework has remain the best tools that health care
are assessing for red flags, especially been developed on behalf of the Interna- practitioners have to raise suspicion of
when the person is likely at low risk of tional Federation of Orthopaedic Manip- serious spinal pathology when used in
having severe pathology. Consider the ulative Physical Therapists (IFOMPT) combination with a thorough patient
wording of your questions, your body
language, tone of voice, and mannerisms
when asking the questions. Key Clinical Messages
People must feel at ease when an- • There is a lack of evidence to support the informativeness of the majority of
swering questions and not judged (eg, red flags commonly used in clinical practice.
intravenous drug use, poor social and • Few red flags, when used in isolation, are informative. Combinations of red
environmental factors). Ensure patients flags demonstrate promise, but this work requires further validation.
have sufficient time to consider and com- • Red flags remain the best tools at the clinician’s disposal to raise suspicion of
municate their answers about something serious spinal pathology, when used within the context of a thorough subjec-
that they may never have considered be- tive patient history and physical examination.
fore (eg, their toilet habits and how those • Clinicians should consider both the evidence to support red flags and the indi-
may have changed). vidual profile of the person’s determinants of health (eg, age, sex) to decide the
Provide support regarding the emo- level of concern (index of suspicion) for presence of serious spinal pathology.
tional impact of being assessed for po-
2 | ahead of print | journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy

history and an appropriate physical ex- TABLE 1): CES, spinal fracture, malignan- serious spinal pathologies and outline
amination. Serious spinal pathology is cy, and spinal infection. risk factors, symptoms, signs, and initial
associated with increasing age, although The following sections summarize investigations. Each section concludes
serious pathology can affect all ages.33 the red flags for each of the 4 prioritized with a series of clinical-reasoning cases/
Populations around the world are ag-
ing, which presents challenges, as peo-
ple with increased medical complexity Evidence
and morbidities present more often to
musculoskeletal services. Consequently,
Red flags Red flags
therapists may see more patients with (supported by high- versus (supported by
serious pathology. Prevalence quality evidence) consensus only) Red flags
of pathology in combination
Goal of the International Framework
Given the paucity of high-quality evi-
Level of concern
dence to guide practice, we built this

framework on multiple perspectives,
including synthesizing the current re- Symptom
Repeat visit?
search data, expert consensus and opin- progression
ion, and steering-group consensus, to Urgency

(consequence
reflect an evidence-based practice ap- Response of delay)
proach.77 The framework is intended to to care Comorbidities
provide clinicians with a clear clinical-
reasoning pathway to clarify the role of Clinical profile
red flags in identifying serious spinal
pathology. Consider within the context of the patient profile (eg, sex, age, race)
Decision Tool for Early Identification FIGURE 1. Decision tool for early identification of potential serious spinal pathology, step 1. Consider the evidence
to support red flags, together with the clinical and patient profiles, when determining your level of concern for
of Serious Spinal Pathology
serious pathology.
The basis of our framework is a decision
tool to help clinicians identify serious spi-
nal pathology. The tool has 3 steps:
1. Determine your level of concern. Con-
Level of Concern
sider the evidence to support red flags
and the individual profile of the per- LOW HIGH
son’s health determinants (eg, age, sex)
to decide your level of concern (your in-
dex of suspicion) about the presence of No Few Some Some
serious pathology (FIGURE 1).
concerning concerning concerning concerning
features features features features
2. Decide on your clinical action, based
on your level of concern determined Decision: Decision: Decision: Decision:
Begin a trial of Begin a trial of URGENT referral EMERGENCY referral
in step 1 (FIGURE 2). therapy therapy with watchful
3. Consider the pathway for emergency/ waiting DO NOT begin a trial DO NOT begin a trial
Revise management if of therapy of therapy
urgent referral. Know your local refer- clinical features Begin a trial of
ral pathways and pathways to access change unexpectedly therapy Further investigation Emergency referral is
or referral is warranted
specialist care if indicated (FIGURE 3). Revise management if warranted
clinical features
Prioritize Serious Spinal Pathologies change unexpectedly
In 2016, the member organizations of IF- Monitor progress

OMPT, a subgroup of the World Confed- closely (vigilance)
eration for Physical Therapy, identified 4
priority areas for discussion and research FIGURE 2. Decision tool for early identification of potential serious spinal pathology, step 2. Decide your clinical
action based on your level of concern.
on red flags (incidence data presented in

scenarios. (For all the key definitions opment of clinical guidelines.3 Phase 2 Jisc Online Surveys (Jisc, Bris-
used in this document, see APPENDIX A, Phase 1 We reviewed systematic reviews tol, UK) was used to administer the 4
available at www.jospt.org). and other key papers summarizing avail- separate questionnaires developed in
able evidence related to red flags in 1 or phase 1. The international expert group
Method: Haute Autorité de more of the 4 key spinal pathologies (see (100 experts from 19 countries) rated red
Santé Consensus Method APPENDIX B, available at www.jospt.org, flag statements based on the evidence
This framework combines an evidence for an evidence summary table). This presented (phase 1) and their own expe-
synthesis and international expert con- led to the formulation of 4 international rience. Each section reports separately on
sensus. We followed the Haute Autorité expert consensus questionnaires, 1 for how many experts were involved in the
de Santé recommendations for the devel- each key pathology. consensus process for that section. Ano-
Person referred with

musculoskeletal
condition
No concerning Some concerning

features Few concerning features
features
Consider watchful wait
Initiate treatment and
safety neta patient
Consider further investigation/referral

Treat as planned and Progress as Not improving or The timing of this will depend on the specific pathology, but may be urgent
monitor symptoms expected new concerning features or same day/emergency. Refer to condition-specific sections for details. If
investigations are negative, consider further referral or restart treatment
Progress as
expected
Treatment proceeds
as expected and
patient is discharged
from care
FIGURE 3. Decision tool for early identification of potential serious spinal pathology, step 3. Consider the pathway for emergency/urgent referral if indicated. aSafety netting is a
management strategy used for people who may present with possible serious pathology. These strategies should include advice on which signs and symptoms to look out for,
which action to take if symptoms deteriorate, and the time frame within which action should be taken.37

TABLE 1 Prevalence Estimates for Key Pathologies When Presenting With Back Pain a
Primary Secondary Tertiary: ED Tertiary: Spine Center

CES Estimated incidence (UK): 0.002%31 LBP: 0.4%66
Back pain: 0.04%17
Fracture: OCF LBP: 0.7%,35 3.0%,73 4.0%,41 4.1%,80 4.5%16 Left X-ray: 2.6%69 Back pain: 6.5%29 LBP: 5.6%66
Left X-ray: 7.3%,65 11.0%68
Fracture: traumatic LBP: <1%41
Malignancy LBP: 0.0%,35 0.1%,19 0.2%,43 0.2%,26 0.6%,16 0.7%15 Musculoskeletal pain: 7.0%40 LBP: 0.1%68 LBP: 1.6%66
Nonmechanical pain: 0.7%41 Lumbar restriction: 6.0%13
Infectionb Nonmechanical LBP: 0.01%41 LBP: 1.2%66
Postprocedural discitis represents up to 30% of
all cases of pyogenic spondylodiscitis21
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; ED, emergency department; LBP, low back pain; OCF, osteoporotic compression fracture.
a
Values are estimated point prevalence or incidence (where indicated).
b
Infective spondylitis in all settings: 0.0004%21 (in developed countries).

nymized responses were returned online the steering group developed the final Twenty-three percent of litigation
using a rating scale between 1 and 9 (1 be- version of the clinical framework. claims for spinal surgery in England re-
ing totally inappropriate, 9 being totally late to CES, according to an assessment
appropriate). All results were reviewed by Cauda Equina Syndrome of litigation claims in England between
the steering committee. The cauda equina comprises 20 nerve 2013-2015 and 2015-2016.39
We calculated the median score for roots that originate from the conus Risk Factors Compression of the cauda
each statement. Statements with a me- medullaris at the base of the spinal cord. equina usually occurs as a result of a disc
dian score of 7 or above were classed as Cauda equina syndrome occurs as a result prolapse.18 However, any space-occupy-
consensus appropriate, and those with a of compression of these neural structures. ing lesion could cause cauda equina com-
median score of 3.5 or less were classed Cauda equina syndrome is challenging to pression. Relevant symptoms that can be
as consensus inappropriate.3 Any re- diagnose and manage in a timely manner. precursors to CES are unilateral or bilat-
maining items that had not gained con- It may present in any clinical setting, and eral radicular pain, dermatomal reduced
sensus by this point were reviewed by clinicians must effectively and efficiently sensation, and myotomal weakness.
the steering committee, and a consen- reason through their findings to provide If symptoms progress from the pre-
sus decision was then taken to either in- timely management. Timely diagnosis is cursors described above, with any sug-
clude or exclude these items in the draft essential to avoid life-changing outcomes gestion of changes in bladder or bowel
framework. such as ongoing bladder, bowel, and sex- function or saddle sensory disturbance,
Phase 3 The draft framework was de- ual dysfunction, along with psychosocial then suspect CES. Clinical cue cards
veloped by the steering group based on consequences.31 and credit card–size patient information
a synthesis of the results from phases 1 Literature and International Consen- handouts can aid communicating sen-
and 2. sus Three key source papers were used sitive, sometimes subtle but important
Phase 4 The draft framework was pre- to formulate the international consen- symptoms,22 and should form the basis
sented to an international peer-review sus questionnaire for this section on of your questioning.
group (70 individuals) for opinion on CES18,28,31 (APPENDIX B). The question- Clinical Picture If you suspect CES,
the content, independent of the people naire was sent to 23 international ex- perform a full neurological assessment
taking part in phase 2. The international perts and contained 25 items ( TABLES 2 to establish dermatome sensory loss,
peer-review group was invited to rate through 6). myotome weakness, or reflex changes.28
the content via an online questionnaire. Epidemiology The incidence of CES in A digital rectal examination is no lon-
The review group rated each section of the United Kingdom has been estimated ger considered essential in a primary
the framework based on the following to be 0.002%.31 The overall prevalence of care setting in the United Kingdom. It
criteria: CES has been estimated to range from 1 is necessary in secondary care to evalu-
• Applicability: relevance to the clinical in 33 000 to 1 in 100 000 persons.48 Point ate loss of anal sphincter tone. Sensation
practice prevalence of CES as a cause of low back to light touch and pinprick throughout
• Acceptability: clinical usefulness or pain (LBP) is estimated at 0.04% in pri- the saddle region, including the but-
helpfulness mary care17 and 0.4% in tertiary care.66 tocks, inner thighs, and perianal region,
• Readability: ease of reading Cauda equina syndrome is a complica- is a necessary test in any clinical situa-
They were also able to offer sugges- tion of approximately 2% of all herniated tion. These intimate objective tests must
tions on changes/improvements. This discs.18 The incidence of postoperative only be performed by an appropriately
peer-review group included chiroprac- CES is estimated to be between 0.08% trained clinician, with a chaperone for
tors, osteopaths, physical therapists, and 0.2%.42 the benefit of both the person and the
experts by experience, and member orga-
nization delegates of the IFOMPT. The
response rate of 41% included individuals Number of Cauda Equina Syndrome
TABLE 2
from 13 countries. The median score for Red Flags Gaining Consensus
each section was calculated. All sections
gained a median score of 7 or above and Number of Red Flags
were therefore classed as appropriate ac- Questionnaire sent to 23 25 items reviewed
cording to the Haute Autorité de Santé international experts • 18 items reached consensus as appropriate
method. All comments were reviewed • 2 items reached consensus as inappropriate
• 5 items had no consensus
by the steering committee and relevant
Steering committee 20 items included in the framework (TABLES 3 through 6) (2 items combined)
changes made to the framework. reviewed results 4 items excluded (APPENDIX C)
Phase 5 Based on the phase 4 feedback,

clinician. Conduct the assessment while trasound of the bladder. It is important for and what to do if symptoms of CES
considering cultural sensitivities, local to know your local care pathway so develop).
pathways, medicolegal frameworks, and that people are managed appropriately.
state regulations. When a person does not currently have CES Clinical-Reasoning Cases/Scenarios
People should be sent for emergency CES but there is a suspicion that he or Case 1
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) she may later develop CES, it is essen- A woman is urgently referred to you with
and surgical opinion. Positive findings tial that the person is “safety netted” back pain. Within the wider detailed sub-
are likely to be accompanied by an ul- (ie, informed about what to look out jective and objective examination, there

TABLE 3 Risk Factors for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Risk Factor/Level
of Evidence Context Further Questions Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
Herniated The most common cause arises from a large How old are you? No leg pain, normal • Unilateral or bilateral radicular pain and/
intervertebral central disc herniation at the L4-5 or L5-S1 Do you have any leg pain? neurology, and no CES or dermatomal reduced sensation and/or
disc level51 Where exactly is the pain in your symptoms myotomal weakness
Low Those under 50 y of age carry a higher risk, as legs (above or below knees)? • Reduced saddle sensation (subjective or
do obese people Is the pain down both legs at the objective pinprick)
Relevant symptoms that can be a precursor same time? • Bladder disturbance
to CES: Do you have any pins and needles • Bowel disturbance
• Unilateral or bilateral radicular pain and/or or numbness in your legs, inner • Reduced anal tone/absent squeeze
• Dermatomal reduced sensation and/or thighs, bottom, or genitals? • Sexual disturbance31
• Myotomal weakness11 Do you feel any weakness in your Presentations that increase the probability of
legs? acute threatened CES:
• Back pain with
- Presence of new saddle anesthesia, blad-
der or bowel disturbance
- Age, <50 y
- Unilateral onset progressing to bilateral

leg pain
- Alternating leg pain
- Presence of new motor weakness
LSS The degenerative changes in the lumbar Can you describe any worsening Stable or no neuropathic Recurring and insidious but increasing back
Low spine that are responsible for LSS have the symptoms, including your level leg symptoms pain, with gradual onset of unilateral or
potential to lead to a gradual compromise of pain or symptoms in your bilateral lower-limb sensory disturbance
of the cauda equina nerve roots. This can legs? and/or motor weakness
result in slow-onset CES being overlooked or If 0 is no pain and 10 is the worst Incomplete bladder emptying, urinary hesitan-
dismissed in older people11 pain you have ever had, how low cy, incontinence, nocturia, or urinary tract
CES symptoms associated with degenerative does the pain go? infections. Bladder and/or bowel dysfunction
LSS are generally much less clear than with How high does the pain go? may progress gradually over time11
a herniated disc or claudication. A range of What makes it worse?
typical leg symptoms (eg, aching, cramping, What makes it better?
tingling, and heaviness) provoked by walking
and eased by sitting should be considered as
important in LSS27
Spinal surgery CES is a risk with any lumbar spine surgical ... NA Nerve injuries and paralysis can be caused by a
Low intervention number of problems, including
• Bleeding inside the spinal column (extradu-
ral spinal hematoma)
• Leaking of spinal fluid (incidental durotomy)
• Accidental damage to the blood vessels that
supply the spinal cord with blood
• Accidental damage to the nerves when
they’re moved during surgery55
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; LSS, lumbar spinal stenosis; NA, not applicable.

TABLE 4 Symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome
Symptoms
(subjective)/ Low Clinical High Clinical
Level of Evidence Context Further Questions Suspicion Suspicion
Sensory change History of symptoms, pattern, progression, and When did the sensation problems in your leg(s) start? Normal neurology Sensory change
(lower limbs) time scale Where did they begin and how did those symptoms change as (lower limbs)
Low Consider existing comorbidities (eg, multiple time went on?
sclerosis, diabetes) Exactly where in your legs do you feel the symptoms?
Do you have any other medical conditions?
Motor weakness Time scales of perceived weakness and progres- When did the weakness problems in your leg(s) start? As above Motor weakness
(lower limbs) sion are important to establish Where did the weakness begin and how did those symptoms (lower limbs)
Low Consider existing comorbidities (eg, aortic change as time went on?
aneurysm) Do you have any other medical conditions?
Saddle sensory Precise extent of pins and needles and/or numb- See CES cue card NA Saddle sensory
disturbance ness (eg, difference between bicycle/horse Exactly where do you feel the numbness in your bottom, inner disturbance
Low saddle) thighs, or genitals?
Previous history Where did it start and how has the numbness and/or pins and
Trauma/surgery needles changed over time?

Other potential pudendal nerve compression (eg, Do you have normal sensation when you wipe after toileting?
cycling) How long has this been present?
What hobbies do you have?
Were any interventions used during childbirth? (where appropriate)
Have you had any previous surgery?
Change in History of symptoms, progression, and time scale See CES cue card NA Recent change in
ability to achieve comorbidities (eg, diabetes) When did these symptoms begin? ability to achieve
an erection or Side effects from pharmacology (neuropathic If it was some time ago, are these symptoms different? an erection or
ejaculate medications, codeine) Do you have any other medical conditions? ejaculate
Low Age: older people may have spinal stenosis and are Have you started any new medication?
less likely to have acute CES Were the symptoms present before you began this medication or
Functional symptoms: psychosocial presentation after?

and health care utilization Routine questions related to psychosocial distress
Loss of sensation Previous history of sexual dysfunction? See CES cue card for relevant questions that need to be asked, NA Loss of sensation
in genitals Is this different? including the following: in genitals
during sexual • When did these symptoms begin? during sexual
intercourse • If it was some time ago, are these symptoms different? intercourse
Low • Do you have any other medical conditions?
Ask routine questions related to psychosocial distress
Urinary func- Previous history of bladder disturbance See CES cue card for relevant questions that need to be asked, NA Urinary function
tion (eg, Establish precise change in function, such as including the following: (eg, frequency)
frequency) hesitancy, change in stream, loss of sensation • When did the changes begin?
Low passing urine, inability to feel when the bladder • Describe the changes in urine function
is full or empty, and sensation of incomplete • Do you have any other medical conditions?
voiding • Have you started any new medication?
• Were the symptoms present before you began this medication
or after?
Urinary retention Previous history of bladder disturbance See CES cue card for relevant questions that need to be asked, NA Urinary retention
Low Most of these people will not have critical cauda including the following:
equina compression. However, in the absence • When did the changes begin?
of reliably predictive symptoms and signs, there • When did you last pass urine?
should be a low threshold for investigation with • Have you started any new medication?
an emergency MRI scan28 • Were the symptoms present before you began this medication
Age: older people may have spinal stenosis and are or after?
less likely to have acute CES • Do you have any other medical conditions?
Functional symptoms: psychosocial presentation • Have you attended any other health care setting (GP, surgery,
and health care utilization clinic, hospital, etc) because of this problem?
Be aware of an increase in health-seeking behavior - If so, who did you see and when?
Table continues on page 8.


TABLE 4 Symptoms of Cauda Equina Syndrome (continued)
Symptoms
(subjective)/ Low Clinical High Clinical
Level of Evidence Context Further Questions Suspicion Suspicion
Urinary inconti- Previous history of bladder disturbance See CES cue card for relevant questions that need to be asked, NA Urinary inconti-
nence including the following: nence
Low • When did the changes begin?
• When did you last pass urine?
• Have you started any new medication?
or after?
• Do you have any other medical conditions?
• Have you attended any other health care setting (GP, surgery,
clinic, hospital, etc) because of this problem?

- If so, who did you see and when?
Bowel inconti- Previous history of bowel disturbance See CES cue card for relevant questions that need to be asked, NA Bowel incontinence
nence including the following:
Low • When did the changes begin?

• When did you last open your bowels?
• Have you started any new medication?
or after?
• Do you have any other medical conditions?
• Have you attended any other health care setting (GP, surgery,
clinic, hospital, etc) because of this problem?
- If so, who did you see and when?
Constipation Previous history of bowel disturbance See CES cue card ... Constipation
Low History of symptoms and time scale When did the changes begin?
Side effects from pharmacology (neuropathic When did you last pass a stool?
medications, codeine) Have you started any new medication?

Age: older people may have spinal stenosis and are Were the symptoms present before you began this medication or
less likely to have acute CES after?
Functional symptoms: psychosocial presentation Do you have any other medical conditions?
and health care utilization Have you attended any other health care setting (GP, surgery, clinic,
hospital, etc) because of this problem?
• If so, who did you see and when?
Unilateral/bilat- Unilateral radicular leg pain progressing to bilateral When did the pain progress from 1 leg to 2? No CES symptoms Unilateral/bilateral
eral leg pain radicular leg pain is a concerning presentation How far down each leg does the pain go? leg pain
Low The prevalence of bilateral leg pain in primary care Do you have any conditions that affect your heart or circulation?
is not known
Consider other causes of leg pain:
• Smoker
• Cardiovascular disease
Lesion higher in the spine
Low back pain Presentations that increase the probability of acute When did your back pain begin? See context Low back pain
Low threatened cauda equina How has it progressed?
Back pain with: Do you have or have you had leg symptoms?
• Presence of new saddle anesthesia, bladder or • If so, where exactly is your leg pain?
bowel disturbance Consider questions on CES cue card if symptoms progress
• Age, <50 y
• Unilateral onset progressing to bilateral leg pain
• Alternating leg pain
• Presence of new motor weakness
• Obesity
History of symptoms and time scale
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; GP, general practitioner; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; NA, not applicable.

TABLE 5 Signs of Cauda Equina Syndrome
Signs (objective)/
Level of Evidence Context Physical Assessment Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
Sensory deficit in Examination in any clinical setting, but only if Objective light touch and pinprick car- NA NA
saddle to light touch CES is suspected from the history ried out by a suitably trained clinician
and pinprick Normal examination findings do not exclude with a chaperone present
Low the possibility of CES
Consider previous trauma/surgery to
perineum
Abnormal lower-limb Establish time frame of progression of Myotomes, dermatomes, and reflexes Normal neurology Abnormal and progressing neurological
neurology neurology Consider tone, proprioception, and deficit
Low Other causes (eg, upper motor condition, clonus Management depends on the degree of
peripheral neuropathy) neurological deficit: if there is gross
motor weakness (<3/5) or deteriorat-

ing neurology
Reduced anal tone Examination in a secondary care setting, but Digital rectal examination should be car- NA NA
Low only if CES is suspected from the history ried out by a suitably trained clinician
Normal examination findings would not with a chaperone present

exclude the possibility of CES
Consider previous trauma/surgery to
perineum
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; NA, not applicable.

TABLE 6 Initial Investigations for Cauda Equina Syndrome
Modality Context
MRI MRI is the gold standard investigation to confirm the diagnosis of CES
Most guidelines recommend that people presenting with any of these key clinical signs and symptoms be referred urgently18
CT scan If there are contraindications to MRI
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; CT, computed tomography; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.
are no positive items on the CES cue • Leg pain worsening not since. Neurological examination is
card. • Signs of bilateral leg pain unremarkable.
• LBP, no leg pain • Clinical action: safety net. The im- • Back and bilateral leg pain increasing
• No symptoms of CES portant thing in this case is to dis- • One episode of incontinence 4 weeks
• Clinical action: begin a trial of therapy cuss and document a clear strategy ago
Level of Concern
to follow if symptoms deteriorate • Clinical action: urgent MRI and discuss
(safety net), ensuring the person is and document a clear strategy to follow
LOW HIGH aware that she needs to act immedi- if symptoms deteriorate (safety net)
ately if things get worse Level of Concern
Level of Concern
Case 2 LOW HIGH
The woman has back and leg pain. The LOW HIGH
pain in her leg is getting worse and is
now radiating distally below the knee, Case 4
and she has started to notice pain in the Case 3 The woman has now developed a 1-week
other leg. Nothing on CES questioning is The woman now has back and increas- history of some numbness of the left side
positive, and there is no existing neuro- ing leg pain bilaterally. She reports one of the vagina.
logical deficit. episode of incontinence 4 weeks ago, but • Back and bilateral leg pain increasing

• One episode of incontinence 4 weeks cate possible fracture are unhelpful in the early stages. On physical examina-
ago diagnosing vertebral fracture, with many tion, the person may have an increased
• One-week history of vaginal numbness false-positive tests accompanied by low prominence of the spinous process at the
• Clinical action: emergency MRI/refer diagnostic accuracy.85 Acting on single affected level, and increased kyphosis.
onto emergency pathway red flags is not recommended. Instead, The person may be tender to percussion
Level of Concern consider broader risk factors and differ- at the affected level, though absence of
ential diagnoses.85 Osteoporotic fractures this should not reassure the clinician that
LOW HIGH have a similar distribution as metastases, there is no fracture.50 People with a sus-
with 70% in the thoracic region, 20% in pected fracture should have an X-ray in
the lumbar region, and 10% in the cer- the first instance to determine whether a
Suggested Pathway for Emergency/Ur- vical region. Most spinal fractures occur fracture is present, and to grade and de-
gent Referral Refer to the clinical de- between the T8 and L4 levels.64 fine the nature of the fracture.
cision tool for suggested pathways for Risk Factors An increasing number of Differential Diagnosis Consider possible
emergency/urgent referral (FIGURE 3). younger people are affected by insuffi- differential diagnoses for spinal fracture.
ciency spinal fractures (fractures caused These include metastatic spinal disease
Spinal Fracture by normal stresses on weakened bone), (see the Spinal Malignancy section) and
Spinal fractures make up the largest due to a range of risk factors. These in- multiple myeloma, both of which can
number of serious pathologies in the clude excessive alcohol consumption cause healthy bone to be replaced by tu-
spine. While these are predominantly a (risk increases when drinking greater mor. In the case of metastatic disease,
risk for older patients, especially women, than 3 units per day), vitamin D deficien- 60% of metastases occur in the anterior
clinicians need to be aware of the risk fac- cy, long-term corticosteroid use (greater half of the vertebral body, thus potential-
tors and signs and symptoms of spinal than 5 or 7.5 mg per day over a 3-month ly weakening this area and leading to a
fractures and to consider what detailed period), rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, wedge fracture. These fractures may look
questions to ask to help with further smoking (greater than 20 cigarettes per very similar on X-ray. Take a careful his-
management. day61), dietary restriction, eating disor- tory and explore any relevant risk factors
Five key source papers were used to ders, and absorption problems from the for each type of pathology.
formulate the international consensus gut (eg, Crohn’s disease5,75). Establish the Fractures from myeloma may also look
questionnaire for spinal fracture23,50,63,72,85 presence or absence of these risk factors very similar to osteoporotic fractures on
(APPENDIX B). The questionnaire was sent with detailed history taking. X-ray, depending on the location. People
to 28 international experts and contained Clinical Picture People commonly pre with myeloma may present at a slightly
27 items (TABLES 7 through 11). sent with sudden onset of pain, mostly earlier age than those with osteoporosis
Epidemiology Estimates for the point located in the thoracolumbar region, fol- and metastases, but further imaging may
prevalence of osteoporotic compression lowing low-impact trauma such as a slip or be required to establish the cause of a
fracture as a cause of LBP range between trip or lifting something while in a flexed fracture if there are no clear indications
0.7% and 4.5% in the primary care set- position. The pain varies in presentation, from the person’s subjective history.
ting16,35,41,73,80 and 6.5% in the emergency but is often severe and mostly localized to
care setting.29 Low-impact or nontrau- the area of the fracture.36 Weight-bearing Clinical-Reasoning Cases/Scenarios
matic fractures are the most common activities and active movements are re- Case 1
serious pathology in the spine, with ver- stricted and painful, and the person may A 35-year-old man presents with sudden
tebral fractures being the most common require strong analgesia, particularly in onset of thoracic pain after lifting a heavy
osteoporotic fracture. Approximately
12% of women between 50 and 70 years
Number of Spinal Fracture Red
of age and up to 20% of those over 70 TABLE 7
Flags Gaining Consensus
years of age have vertebral fractures.72 As
much as 70% of these fractures are undi-
Number of Red Flags
agnosed and found during investigation
Questionnaire was sent 27 items reviewed
for other health conditions.50
to 28 international • 13 items reached consensus as appropriate
It is important to identify people with experts • 14 items had no consensus
vertebral fractures, as they are more like- • 0 items reached consensus as inappropriate
ly to sustain later hip fractures, bringing Steering committee 18 Items included in framework (TABLES 8 through 11)
further health consequences and risk for reviewed results 9 items excluded (APPENDIX C)
the person. Red flags purported to indi-

TABLE 8 Risk Factors for Spinal Fracture
Risk Factor/Level
of Evidence Context Further Questions Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
History of osteo- History of osteoporosis increases the risk of Do you have osteoporosis? No family history Previous osteoporotic fractures
porosis fracture Do you have a family history of No other osteoporotic risk Concurrent osteoporotic risk factors
High A family history of osteoporosis will also increase osteoporosis? factors
the risk of osteoporosis and fracture in women36 Have you had previous osteoporotic No previous fractures
People with known osteoporosis have an increased fractures?
risk of fracture, and those with a previous osteo- Are you taking any medication for
porotic fracture have a 5.4-fold increased risk of your osteoporosis?
vertebral fracture and a 2.8-fold increased risk • If so, what are you taking?
of hip fracture75 • If not, have you been prescribed
Medication for osteoporosis can reduce the risk of it, or is there a reason you are not
fracture in the following year by 50% to 80%72 taking it?

Corticosteroid Steroid use of 7.5 mg for >3 mo increases the risk Have you used steroid tablets or No steroid use Steroid use of >5 mg over a 3-mo
use of osteoporosis.12,58 The effects of inhaled ste- inhaled steroids? Steroid use of <5 mg over a period
High roids are inconclusive in terms of bone mineral • How long have you used them for, 3-mo period in a year
density, though the clinician should ask about and what dose did you use?
high-dose inhaled steroid use75
Previous history Metastatic bone disease may decrease bone Do you have a history of cancer? No past medical history of History of cancer of the
of cancer density, especially in the thoracic region (70% • Where was the cancer? cancer • breast
Low of cases) • What treatment did you have for • prostate
your cancer? • lung
• What stage was the cancer? • kidney
• thyroid
Severe trauma The more significant the amount of trauma, the Have you had a significant injury/fall No immediate bony pain post Immediate spinal pain post injury
High higher the likelihood of bony injury (ACR guide- from a height? injury Focal bony tenderness in the midline of
lines suggest a fall of 5 stairs or 3 ft)1 Did your pain start suddenly after a the spine may indicate underlying
The position of the person at the time of injury is particular activity, like coughing or bony injury
also important (eg, flexed, as this might pre- sneezing?
cipitate a fracture with a seemingly innocuous
activity like coughing)
Female sex 19.8/1000 women have osteoporotic fracture How old were you when you started Women with normal Women who are postmenopausal, es-
High 8.4/1000 men have osteoporotic fracture75 your periods? menarche and normal pecially those with early menopause
Women with late-onset menarche (>16 y)70 or How old were you when you went menopause with no other or those with late menarche
early menopause (<45 y) are at higher risk of through menopause? risk factors
osteoporosis,81 and therefore spinal fracture
Older age Bone density decreases with age in women and Have you had any investigations for People under 50 y Women over 65 y and men over 75
High men your bones, such as X-rays or y have a higher risk of vertebral
12% of women aged 50-70 y have had a spinal DEXA scans? fracture75
fracture, and 20% of women over 70 y have had Patients over 80 y have a very high
a spinal fracture likelihood of having had an osteopo-
70% of these will not know about it72 rotic fracture
Previous spinal If previous fracture due to osteoporosis occurred, Have you had a previous spinal No previous history of spinal Previous history of low-impact spinal
fracture then the person has a 5.4-fold increased risk of fracture? fracture fracture
High vertebral fracture and a 2.8-fold increased risk
of hip fracture within the year53,75
History of falls While the trauma of a fall may precipitate a All people with osteoporosis should People with no comorbidities People with comorbidities: the more
Low fracture, multiple conditions can cause falls and be assessed for risk of falls58 they have, the higher risk they have
immobility, especially in the older patient All people should have a detailed of falling
Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, dementia, past medical history taken
alcoholism, and malnutrition can all increase
the risk of falls61
Abbreviations: ACR, American College of Rheumatology; DEXA, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.


TABLE 9 Symptoms of Spinal Fracture
Symptoms
(subjective)/
Level of Evidence Context Further Questions Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
Thoracic pain Most (70%) nontraumatic spinal fractures occur Detailed questioning of the patient is Thoracic pain with no Any patient with known cancer, myeloma,
High in the thoracic spine. 70% of metastases oc- needed to assess for risk factors for history of cancer, or osteoporosis
cur in the thoracic spine, too, and should be each of these diseases osteoporosis, or
considered in the differential diagnosis myeloma and no
Myeloma most commonly affects the thoracic further risk factors
spine, too, and should also be considered in
the differential diagnosis
Band-like pain should be considered a concern
and may indicate MSCC79
Severe pain Some people may have a long history of back Is this a familiar pain to you/does this feel If this is a person’s first Describes pain that is unfamiliar and pos-
Low pain. It is important to establish whether this familiar? episode of back sibly worsening pain
is a new or different pain Have you experienced back pain in the pain, then conser-
past? vative management
is the first course of

action
Neurological People with spinal fracture will not usually Do you have any change in sensation in No distally referred People with bilateral/quadrilateral
symptoms develop neurological deficit/signs, but must your arms or legs? symptoms or sub- neurological symptoms, including gait
Low be carefully examined to exclude neurological Do you have any difficulties with walking jective neurological disturbance and coordination issues/
deficit or coordination? symptoms bladder and bowel disturbance
Do you have any difficulties with your
balance?
Abbreviation: MSCC, metastatic spinal cord compression.

TABLE 10 Signs of Spinal Fracture
Signs (objective)/
Spine tenderness Patients with midline bony tenderness Palpate the spinous processes and consider No spinal tenderness Tenderness or reproduction
Low should be considered to be at risk of percussion/vibration with a 128-Hz tuning of symptoms on palpa-
spinal fracture50 fork to examine spinal tenderness or tion, percussion, and/or
reproduction of symptoms further vibration
Bony percussion/use of a tuning fork may in-
dicate the presence of bony injury, though
this should be interpreted with caution
Neurological signs People with a subjective complaint of Upper- and lower-limb neurology and upper Localized spinal pain with no dis- People with spinal fracture
Low neurological symptoms must have a full and lower motor neuron testing should tal referral or limb symptoms and symptoms in the
neurological examination be performed. Neurological examination limbs, or with coordina-
may need to include the upper and/or tion/gait disturbance, or
lower limbs, including upper and lower changes to bladder/bowel
motor neuron clinical tests activity
Spinal deformity Onset of deformity post trauma Bony percussion may indicate bony injury, No change in spinal posture Sudden change in spinal
Low Sudden change in posture associated with as may use of a tuning fork, though these shape related to trauma
a sudden increase in pain in the person tests should be treated with some caution or in a known osteoporotic
with known osteoporosis Imaging may be appropriate patient
Contusion or abrasion May indicate the site of trauma and should ... Abrasion with no bony tenderness Abrasion following trauma
Low be considered if associated with a associated with central
painful site spinal bony tenderness

bag of concrete. The man has no previ- • Age and sex are risk factors (although region in the first instance would be
ous history of fracture and is generally she is under 65 years of age) appropriate
in good health. He smokes 5 cigarettes a • Early menopause Level of Concern
day and has done so for 10 years. He has • Smokes 20 cigarettes per day
limited thoracic spine movement into ro- • Clinical action: treat and monitor LOW HIGH
tation to both sides. He is locally tender symptoms. While there are some risk
to palpation at T8 and T9 unilaterally on factors, her symptoms are recent and
both sides. improving, and she is on low-dose Case 4
• Man under 65 years of age medication for pain. She does not re- A 74-year-old man with mid-thoracic and
• No family history quire imaging, and it would be safe to lumbar pain presents with increasing pain
• No steroid use treat her and monitor progress with- locally in the spine, but no trauma/injury.
• No previous fractures out further investigation at this stage Pain is worse in lying and standing and
• No excessive alcohol use Level of Concern eased slightly in sitting. He is taking in-
• Minimal to no smoking creasing doses and strengths of analgesia,
• Clinical action: treat and monitor LOW HIGH which helps a little. He has some shortness
symptoms. His age and sex put him at of breath on exertion and pain on deep in-
low risk of osteoporotic fracture and spiration. He is a nonsmoker and drinks 3
his smoking habit is below 20 ciga- Case 3 pints of beer a day. He had a transurethral
rettes per day, which is low risk. No A 78-year-old woman presents with up- resection of the prostate for prostate can-
further investigation is required at per lumbar pain. No precipitating injury cer 10 years ago and has been discharged
this stage was reported, but the pain has worsened from follow-up by the urologist.
Level of Concern
over the last 3 months. The pain is • Age and site of pain
worse when lying supine. She has a his- • Worsening pain
LOW HIGH tory of left radius fractures. She had her • Increasing analgesia
menopause at age 38, having started her • Alcohol intake
periods at 15 years of age. She is other- • History of prostate cancer
Case 2 wise well and has no family history of • Breathlessness
A 60-year-old woman presents with mod- osteoporosis. • Clinical action: urgent MRI of the
erately severe thoracolumbar pain after • Age and sex are risk factors whole spine. The man has several
bending over and lifting a heavy pot in the • Worsening pain risk factors for spinal fracture. These
garden 3 weeks ago. Her pain is slightly • Early menopause and a late menarche include a history of prostate cancer,
improved. She is otherwise well and not • Worse when lying supine which is one of the cancers most likely
on any medication other than paracetamol • History of fractures to metastasize to the spine. His pain is
for her pain. She has no history of fracture. • Clinical action: urgent thoracic spine worse in lying, which is more unusual
She had an early menopause at age 35. She X-ray. The patient has several risk and may indicate underlying serious
smokes 20 cigarettes per day. She has pain factors for osteoporosis, including pathology (tumor). His age puts him
in extension and rotation, some local spi- age, sex, early menopause and late at risk of osteoporosis, even though
nal tenderness, and zygapophyseal (facet) menarche, and history of radius frac- he is male, as his bone density is likely
joint tenderness bilaterally. tures. An X-ray of her thoracolumbar to have decreased. His shortness of

TABLE 11 Initial Investigations for Spinal Fracture
Modality Context
X-ray X-rays are the first-line choice to determine whether there is a fracture present, with lateral views likely to yield the most information.50 X-rays are readily avail-
able and relatively low cost. It may be difficult to determine the age of the fracture using X-rays alone
MRI MRI is the investigation of choice for differentiating osteoporotic fractures from metastatic disease and myeloma. Use MRI if there are multiple fractures identi-
fied on X-ray.50 MRI will also help to determine the age of the fracture, as it can identify bone marrow edema from recent/healing fractures61
CT scan A CT scan is commonly performed for other conditions. Assess the sagittal view for undiagnosed vertebral fractures.72 CT scans may be helpful in evaluating
complex fractures or those with retropulsed fragments, as they give excellent bony definition.61 CT scans may also be used where MRI is contraindicated
Abbreviations: CT, computed tomography; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.

breath may be a concern in the ab- Spinal Malignancy Risk Factors The second most common
sence of a chronic obstructive pulmo- Metastases are cancer lesions that have serious pathology to affect the spine, af-
nary disease or smoking history, given spread from the primary cancer site to a ter fracture, is MBD as a consequence of
his prostate cancer. This man would new and different site in the body. Spinal a primary cancer.20 More effective medi-
benefit from further investigation of malignancy (TABLES 12 through 16) refers cal treatment of primary cancers means
his spine with whole-spine MRI to to metastases that have spread specifi- people are living longer, putting them at
exclude metastases and fracture. A cally into the spine. Bone is a common greater risk of later developing MBD.7
chest X-ray would be appropriate to site for metastases, known as metastatic Cancer can affect all ages, but the risk
exclude lung metastases/disease, and bone disease (MBD), in a number of of developing malignancy increases with
blood tests would be relevant to ex- cancers (breast, prostate, lung, kidney, age.33 The consequences of untreated or
clude myeloma and look for signs of and thyroid).78 A Cochrane review34 was late diagnosis are widespread metasta-
inflammation, infection, or increased the key source paper used to formulate ses and visceral involvement. Metastatic
bone turnover. If one is not able to re- the international consensus question- bone disease can lead to significant mor-
quest these medical tests, then urgent naire for the spinal malignancy section bidity and reduction in quality of life due
referral would be appropriate (APPENDIX B). to MSCC and, in the worst-case scenar-
Level of Concern Epidemiology Estimates for the point io, to paralysis and compromise of the
prevalence of spinal malignancy as a cause bladder, bowel, and sexual function.78
LOW HIGH of LBP range between 0.0% and 0.7% in Clinical Picture The spine is one of the
the primary care setting,15,16,19,26,35,43 0.1% earliest sites affected by MBD, especially
in the emergency care setting,68 and 1.6% in those cancers that have a propensity to
Suggested Pathway for Emergency/Ur- in the tertiary care setting.66 Malignancy metastasize.74 The 5 most common can-
gent Referral Refer to the clinical de- as a cause of musculoskeletal pain is es- cers to metastasize are breast, prostate,
cision tool for suggested pathways for timated at 7.0% in the secondary care lung, kidney, and thyroid.10 Approximate-
emergency/urgent referral (FIGURE 3). setting.40 ly 30% of all people with one of these pri-
mary diagnoses of cancer will have their
cancer metastasize, so it is important not
Number of Spinal Malignancy Red to subject all people with a history of can-
TABLE 12
Flags Gaining Consensus cer to unnecessary and worrying investi-
gations. In breast cancer, MBD can occur

Number of Red Flags at any time, with 50% occurring within
Questionnaire sent to 28 29 items reviewed the first 5 years after a primary diagnosis
international experts • 14 items reached consensus as appropriate of cancer and the other 50% developing
• 6 items reached consensus as inappropriate
10 years and later.44
Other primary cancers may metas-
Steering committee 14 items included in the framework (TABLES 13 through 16)
reviewed results 12 items excluded (APPENDIX C)
tasize, but have a lower incidence.62 Cli-
nicians should not be reassured by the

TABLE 13 Risk Factors for Spinal Malignancy
Risk Factor/Level of
Evidence Context Further Questions Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
Past history of Not all those cancers with a pre- Do you have any concerns Cancers with a predilection to Cancers that have a predilection to bone metastases (eg,
cancer dilection to bone metastases about your symptoms? bone metastases but in an breast, prostate, lung, kidney, and thyroid10)
High will develop them. However, How long ago was the primary early stage (1 or 2), with no In breast cancer grade 3 or 4 (late stage), large tumors
some will metastasize in the diagnosis made? lymph node involvement62 with lymph node involvement62
first 5 y of diagnosis, with How big was the primary tumor, Cancers that do not have a In prostate cancer, a Gleason score of 9 or 10 (despite
50% doing so 10-20 y later44 and at which stage? predilection to bone metas- a PSA level greater than 50 ng/mL at diagnosis) is
Approximately 25% of people Was there any lymph node tases (eg, ovarian cancer, considered to be an aggressive cancer that is likely to
with MSCC have no known involvement? melanoma62) spread more rapidly4
primary diagnosis57 Which treatment did you have?
Abbreviations: MSCC, metastatic spinal cord compression; PSA, prostate-specific antigen.

TABLE 14 Symptoms of Spinal Malignancy
Symptoms (subjective)/
Severe pain that may MBD does not have a linear progression and Are your symptoms getting better, the The person presents with Subjective reports of progres-
become progressive is more likely to wax and wane, but in the same, or worse? initial severe pain but reports sively worsening symptoms,
and constant later stages it becomes more constant Do you have band-like pain? improvement with treatment; with possible features of
Low and progressive. People may report it is important to continue to band-like pain, and inability
escalating pain, which can increase when evaluate, as the person may to lie flat
lying flat79 be in a good phase
Night pain Most people with back pain will suffer from Does your pain wake you at night? The person reports that he or People who report having to walk
Low night pain. People who report being What do you have to do to get back she is able to get back to the floors or sit in a chair or
woken on movement and subsequently to sleep? sleep following a change lie on the floor, with minimal
are unable to get comfortable and go back Does your night pain occur in a of position or after taking relief
to sleep are of less concern than those particular position? medication
who describe an inability to get back to
sleep due to the intensity of symptoms
and who report having to get up to relieve
the pain25
Systemically unwell These are often symptoms described in the Do you feel well? Able to associate with another May describe the features of hy-
Low late stages of the disease and may include • If not, then explore the features of cause percalcemia, such as fatigue,
fatigue, nausea, anorexia, and constipa- hypercalcemia nausea, stomach pain, and
tion, which are symptoms suggestive of • Establish whether these symptoms fever. These also tend to be
hypercalcemia24 could be associated with other progressive in nature
Constipation is not necessarily a systemic causes
complaint
These could appear on their own or as a
cluster of symptoms
Thoracic pain The thoracic spine is the most common site Is the area sensitive to touch? Appears mechanical, but caution May be painful on percussion
Low of MBD Is it mechanical in presentation? needs to be applied here. over the area of pain. May not
It is important to note that MBD may not cor- Often, MBD gives the impres- be a mechanical pain pattern
respond to the sensory level of pain sion of being mechanical in
nature, appearing to initially
respond to treatment
Neurological symptoms MBD can cause neurological symptoms and Do you have any pins and needles or No distally referred symptoms People with bilateral/quadrilat-
Low in some cases cord compression, includ- numbness? or subjective neurological eral neurological symptoms,
ing UMN signs and CES Have you noticed any weakness in symptoms including gait disturbance and
your legs? coordination issues/bladder
Ask CES questions (see the CES sec- and bowel disturbance
tion for more detail)
Unexplained weight loss Consider other causes of weight loss, such Is your weight steady? Weight loss related to medication The individual has lost 5%-10%
High as change in diet, increase in exercise, • If the person answers that he or she or change in diet, or weight of body weight over a 3- to
medication that increases levels of pain, has lost weight, ask if the person loss has stabilized 6-mo period59
or other morbidities such as hyperthyroid- knows why he or she has lost Can be attributed to other
ism or diabetes59 weight causes
Consider more than 5% of weight loss over a Have you changed your diet?
6-mo period as significant and requiring How much weight loss over the last
further questioning to establish a cause59 3-6 mo have you had?
Unfamiliar back pain Some people may have a long history of Is this a familiar pain to you? If this is a person’s first episode Describes pain that is unfamiliar
Low back pain, so it is important to establish Have you experienced back pain in of back pain, conservative and possibly worsening
whether this is a new or different pain the past? management is the first
Does this feel familiar to you? course of action
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; MBD, metastatic bone disease; UMN, upper motor neuron.


TABLE 15 Signs of Spinal Malignancy
Signs (objective)/
Altered sensation People might report altered sensation that Neurological examination testing Normal neurology and no objective Objective signs and reduced
from trunk down is nondermatomal and describe strange Sensation throughout the area change in sensation sensation
Low feelings in the legs (often a vague and non- described by the patient
specific, difficult-to-describe sensation).
People may report decreased mobility79
Neurological signs People who present with a subjective com- Neurological examination that may Localized spinal pain with no distal People with symptoms in the limbs
Low plaint of neurological symptoms must have need to include the upper and/or referral or limb symptoms and/or with coordination/gait
a full neurological examination lower limbs, including upper and disturbance, or changes to blad-
lower motor neuron clinical tests der/bowel activity
Spine tenderness Sometimes, the spine can be tender on per- The clinician should palpate the No tenderness on palpation or Tenderness or reproduction of
Low cussion. However, lack of tenderness does spinous processes and may percussion/vibration symptoms on palpation or
not rule out the possibility of metastases use percussion/vibration with percussion/vibration
It is important to percuss the whole spine, as a 128-Hz tuning fork to further
the area of pain reported may not be the examine spinal tenderness or
area of metastasis reproduction of symptoms

TABLE 16 Initial Investigations for Spinal Malignancy
Modality Context
MRI MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing MBD78
Because the sensory level does not always correspond to the level of metastases if MBD is suspected, MRI of the whole spine is required46
CT scan If there are contraindications to MRI
Blood tests There is no combination of inflammatory markers that can be used as a reliable rule-in or rule-out test strategy. The decision to test must be made in the
context of other clinical findings84
Abbreviations: CT, computed tomography; MBD, metastatic bone disease; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.
absence of a history of cancer, as MSCC nicians and patients (eg, https://www. breast cancer 5 years ago presents with
can be the first sign of metastases in ap- christie.nhs.uk/media/1125/legacyme- an exacerbation of LBP. No other red
proximately 25% of people who do not dia-1201-mscc-service_education_mscc- flags or signs and symptoms suggestive
have a primary diagnosis of cancer and resources_red-flag-card.pdf ). of a mechanical problem are present on
are subsequently diagnosed with MSCC.57 Metastases can affect any region examination.
Metastatic spinal cord compression can of the spine, most commonly the tho- • History of breast cancer 5 years ago
occur as a consequence of MBD when racic spine (70%), but also the cervical • Clinical action: treat and monitor
there is pathological vertebral-body col- spine (10%) and lumbar spine (20%).73 symptoms
lapse or where direct tumor growth causes Primary tumors that are at high risk of Level of Concern
compression of the spinal cord, leading to metastasizing are those that were large
irreversible neurological damage.46 at diagnosis, diagnosed at a late stage of LOW HIGH
A high index of suspicion, early diag- the disease (stage 3 or 4), or had lymph
nosis with referral for urgent investiga- node involvement with radical treat-
tion, and prompt treatment can result in ment, including surgery, chemotherapy, Case 2
better outcomes in terms of function and and/or radiotherapy.62 The woman reports that her pain
prognosis.79 Careful questioning using is not responding to usual medica-
good communication skills is essential Clinical-Reasoning Cases/Scenarios tion and that she has been prescribed
in early identification. The use of credit Case 1 stronger medication, which is helping.
card–size patient information handouts A 58-year-old woman with a 42-year She describes her symptoms as differ-
can aid in communication between cli- history of chronic LBP and history of ent from her usual back pain, which

has had some relief from conservative • Clinical action: emergency MRI scan. and TB, see the World Health Organiza-
treatment. Some concerning features may sug- tion.87 Staphylococcus aureus and Bru-
• History of breast cancer 5 years ago gest MSCC. Provide information that cella are the other main bacteria that are
• Using stronger painkillers describes the symptoms of MSCC identified in reports on spinal infection.88
• Some relief with conservative and what to do if symptoms develop79 Two key source papers were used to
management (see also https://www.christie.nhs.uk/ formulate the international consensus
• Describes unfamiliar pain media/1125/legacymedia-1201-mscc- questionnaire for this section on spinal
• Clinical action: treat, monitor symp- service_education_mscc-resources_ infection67,88 (APPENDIX B). The question-
toms, and discuss and document a red-flag-card.pdf ). naire was sent to 21 international ex-
clear strategy to follow if symptoms Level of Concern
perts and contained 56 items (TABLES 17
deteriorate (safety net) through 21).
Level of Concern LOW HIGH Epidemiology Spinal infections, such
as TB, discitis, and spinal abscesses, are
LOW HIGH uncommon. The incidence is 0.2 to 2.4
Suggested Pathway for Emergency/Ur- cases per 100 000 annually in Western
gent Referral Refer to the clinical de- societies.9,30 Spinal infection represents
Case 3 cision tool for suggested pathways for 2% to 7% of all musculoskeletal infec-
The woman’s pain has become progres- emergency/urgent referral (FIGURE 3). tions.45 The point prevalence of spinal
sively worse and she now complains of infection in developed countries is esti-
symptoms waking her at night. She is Spinal Infection mated at 0.0004% (across all settings).21
having difficulty getting back to sleep be- Spinal infection is an infectious disease The point prevalence of infection pre-
cause the pain is so intense. that affects the spinal structures, includ- senting as nonmechanical LBP is esti-
• History of breast cancer 5 years ago ing the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, mated at 0.01% in primary care41 and
• Using stronger painkillers and adjacent paraspinal tissues.60 In 1.2% in a tertiary setting,66 where post-
• Describes unfamiliar pain high-income and upper middle–income procedural discitis represents up to 30%
• Night pain with worsening symptoms countries, spinal infection has steadily of all cases.21
• Clinical action: refer for urgent MRI, increased over recent years, possibly due Discitis mostly affects the lumbar spine
discuss and document a clear strat- to an aging population and an increase in (58%), followed by the thoracic spine
egy to follow if symptoms deteriorate intravenous drug abuse.52 In lower mid- (30%) and cervical spine (11%),30 where-
(safety net). Some concerning features dle–income and lower-income countries, as TB lesions mainly affect the thoracic
suggest malignancy. An MRI scan of spinal infection has increased due to the spine, and often at more than 2 levels.8
the whole spine should be carried out dual epidemic of HIV/AIDS and tuber- The frequency of spinal infections
urgently culosis (TB). presenting in a clinical setting depends
Level of Concern
For further country-specific informa- on the demographics of where you work.
tion on TB, see https://www.wwl.nhs. Due to the rarity of spinal infection in
LOW HIGH uk/library/general_docs/specialties/a_ high-income countries, the diagnosis of
to_z/t/tb-service-who-estimates-of- spinal infection is often delayed, because
tuberculosis-incidence-by-country.pdf,67 clinicians fail to recognize the relevant
Case 4 and for further information on the global red flags and consider spinal infection as
A 75-year-old man presents with a past burden of the dual epidemic of HIV/AIDS a potential differential diagnosis.6
history of prostate cancer 2 years ago,
and he describes band-like pain and
states that his legs feel odd and heavy. He Number of Spinal Infection Red
TABLE 17
reports occasionally tripping and stum- Flags Gaining Consensus
bling. He says he has lost weight but has
put it down to a loss of appetite due to Number of Red Flags
the pain. Questionnaire sent to 21 56 items reviewed
• History of prostate cancer international experts • 30 items reached consensus as appropriate
• 0 items reached consensus as inappropriate
• Balance issues
• Odd sensations in legs
Steering committee 17 items included in the framework (TABLES 18 through 21)
• Band-like pain reviewed results 24 items excluded (APPENDIX C) (16 items were combined)
• Weight loss


TABLE 18 Risk Factors for Spinal Infection
Risk Factor/Level of
Evidence Context Further Questions Low Clinical Suspicion High Clinical Suspicion
Immunosuppression Comorbidities that cause immunosup- Do you have any health issues I need Well-controlled comorbidities with Uncontrolled morbidities with previ-
Low pression can increase the risk of SI to be aware of? no history of infections attributed ous evidence of infections
(eg, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, rheumatoid Is your diabetes well controlled? to their condition
arthritis, pre-existing infections, How long have you been taking steroid
alcohol abuse, and long-term use of medication?
steroids) Have you had a recent infection?
Do you drink alcohol?
• How many units a week do you
drink?
Surgery: invasive Long duration of surgery, in particular, Any previous spinal or abdominal No previous surgical intervention The person has undergone surgery,
Low the type of surgery (more commonly, surgery? particularly of the spine, with
lumbar and posterior approaches), repeated revisions
and multiple revisions are significant
risk factors for SI45
Intravenous drug use An increase in IVDA is thought to be as- Questions must be in the context of No evidence of IVDA Known intravenous drug user
Low sociated with increased risk of SI89 the suspicion of SI
People with a history of intravenous I want to make sure you do not have
drug use may present late and may an infection, so I am going to ask
not see the relevance of drug use to you some questions that will help
their condition. Know the incidence me. Do you take, or have you ever
of drug abuse in the community taken, recreational drugs?
within which you work • If yes, how were these drugs
administered (orally or intrave-
nously)?
Social and environmen- There is a strong association with social What are the conditions like where you Appears well kempt (well dressed Is unkempt (an untidy appearance
tal factors (eg, mi- deprivation and TB. Consider a live, in the workplace, or places you with a clean and tidy appear- and unwashed hair and clothes),
grant, occupational patient’s social history and whether frequently visit? ance) and does not report social raising concerns for poor living
exposure, homeless- his or her situation might include the Do you drink alcohol? conditions that raise concern and social conditions
ness, prisoner, following: alcohol abuse, migrant, • How many units a week do you
contact with infected homelessness, and imprisonment.47 drink?
animals) Consider working and living condi-
Low tions (eg, contact with TB-infected
cattle)88
History of TB (born The majority of TB cases are a result Have you ever been diagnosed with No evidence of TB or contact with No inoculation and has been
in TB-endemic of reactivation of latent infection TB? TB exposed to TB via an endemic
country) acquired some years before47 • Where was the TB? country or persons known to
Low However, transmission of TB needs to Have you been abroad recently? have TB
be considered where individuals • If yes, consider whether this
are born in TB-endemic countries country has a high burden of TB
or where an individual has been • If it is a country with high burden,
exposed to TB sufferers47 has the person had an inoculation
for TB?
Have you been in contact with some-
one who has a history of TB?
Recent pre-existing New local back pain following a recent Have you recently had an infection? The person’s infection has respond- Progressively worsening symptoms
infection episode of sepsis or infection52 Consider other causes, such as ed to treatment (eg, antibiotics)
Low urinary tract infections, and ask and back pain symptoms have
questions related to the condition improved
Abbreviations: IVDA, intravenous drug abuse; SI, spinal infection; TB, tuberculosis.

TABLE 19 Symptoms of Spinal Infection
Symptoms (subjective)/
Spinal pain Back pain is the most common presenting How did your back pain start? No evidence of progressive symp- Localized progressive pain
Low symptom. Neurological symptoms may be Are your symptoms getting better, toms and the person is not able to that limits movement
present. Usually, symptoms are nonspecific, worse, or remaining the same? pinpoint symptoms significantly
with an insidious onset. Range of motion of Can you point to where your symp-
the spine is often limited due to localized toms are?
spinal pain and muscle spasm52
Neurological symptoms Neurological symptoms make up part of the Do you have any pins or needles or No distally referred symptoms or People with bilateral/
Low classic triad for SI numbness? subjective neurological symptoms quadrilateral neurological
Have you noticed any weakness in If the person does not describe any symptoms, including gait
your legs? neurological symptoms, continue disturbance and coor-

to evaluate for possible change dination issues/bladder
and bowel disturbance
Fatigue People might describe “underperforming” Do you feel fit and well? No evidence of fatigue Describes a level of fatigue
Low activities that they would normally be able Have you noticed any changes in that is abnormal for them
to carry out38 your ability to carry out activities when carrying out their
that normally you manage easily? usual tasks
Fever (consider sepsis/ Fever makes up one of the classic triad symp- Have you experienced a fever or chills The absence of fever should not be Person reports fever within
septic shock) toms. Recognize signs of sepsis, as it can since the onset of your back pain? reassuring; it should be monitored the time frame since on-
Low develop rapidly71 set of back pain. Concern
Fever can be absent in approximately 50% of that person might be
people with SI88 developing sepsis
Unexplained weight loss Consider other causes of weight loss, such Is your weight steady? Weight loss related to medication or Person has lost more than
Low as change in diet, increase in exercise or • If the person answers that he or change in diet 5% of body weight over a
medication, increasing levels of pain, or she has lost weight: Weight loss has stabilized 3- to 6-mo period59
other morbidities such as hyperthyroidism - Do you know why you might Can be attributed to other causes
or diabetes59 have lost weight?

Consider more than a 5% weight loss over a - Have you changed your diet?
6-mo period as significant; this requires - How much weight loss over the
further questioning to establish a cause59 last 3-6 mo have you had?
Abbreviation: SI, spinal infection.
Clinical Picture In cases of spinal infec- that suppress a patient’s immune sys- 50% of people report fever as a symp-
tion, the time between onset and diagnosis tem, such as diabetes, HIV, long-term tom.45 Absence of fever cannot rule out
is often prolonged. People can remain rel- steroid use, and smoking, put the person spinal infection.
atively healthy until symptoms manifest in at risk of infection. Consider social and
the later stages of the disease.83 Unlike ma- environmental factors like intravenous Clinical-Reasoning Cases/Scenarios
lignancy, where symptoms wax and wane, drug use, obesity, birth in a TB-endemic Case 1
spinal infection has a more linear pro- country, family history of TB, and living A 47-year-old ex-heroin addict presents
gression, with back pain being the most conditions (overcrowded living, home- with recurrent episodes of LBP and a pre-
common presenting symptom, which can lessness, imprisonment, or rural envi- vious history of back pain. He describes
progress to neurological symptoms. If not ronment). Spinal surgery is a key risk symptoms that are intermittent. He is
treated in a timely manner, the condition factor for spinal infection, in particular very inactive and usually self-treats the
can progress with serious complications multiple revision surgery of the lumbar problem with rest.
such as paralysis or instability of the spine, spine, with an added increased risk for • Male
and can ultimately be fatal. obese people.88 • Ex-drug addict
Diagnosis The subjective history should The classic triad of clinical features • No other concerning features
consider determinants that can be di- comprises back pain, fever, and neurologi- • Clinical action: treat and monitor
vided into comorbidities, environmental cal dysfunction.14 However, many people symptoms, discuss and document a
factors, and social factors. Comorbidities do not present with all 3 features. Only clear strategy to follow if symptoms


TABLE 20 Signs of Spinal Infection
Signs (objective)/
Neurological signs People with a subjective complaint of Neurological examination may need to include Localized spinal pain with People with symptoms in the
Low neurological symptoms must have a full the upper and/or lower limbs, including up- no distal referral or limb limbs, or with coordination/gait
neurological examination per and lower motor neuron clinical tests symptoms disturbance, or with changes to
bladder/bowel activity
Radiculopathy SI can cause radiculopathy, which com- A full neurological examination, including Normal neurological Abnormal and progressing neuro-
Low monly presents with leg pain that usually dermatomes, myotomes, and reflexes examination logical deficit
radiates to the part of the body that is Management depends on the degree
supplied by that specific nerve of neurological deficit (gross
The person may present with weakness or motor weakness of <3/5 or
pins and needles/numbness deteriorating neurology)
Spine tenderness The spine can be tender and reproduce Palpate the spinous processes and consider No significant tenderness Tenderness or reproduction of symp-
on palpation symptoms on percussion using percussion/vibration with a 128-Hz on palpation toms on palpation, percussion,
Low Lack of tenderness or reproduction of tuning fork to further examine spinal tender- and/or vibration
symptoms does not rule out SI ness or reproduction of symptoms
Percuss the whole spine, as the area of pain Bony percussion/use of a tuning fork may
reported may not be the area of infection indicate the presence of bony injury, but
interpret with caution
Abbreviation: SI, spinal infection.

TABLE 21 Initial Investigations for Spinal Infection
Modality Context
MRI MRI is the imaging of choice. Findings on MRI can be observed 3-5 d after the onset of infection, with high sensitivity (96%), specificity (92%), and accuracy
(94%)2,9,49,76
Blood tests There is no single diagnostic blood test. Inflammatory markers are routinely used to assess for infection. The white blood cell count is less useful than erythro-
cyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, as a normal white blood cell count does not exclude spinal infection45
X-ray Chest X-ray if there is suspicion of tuberculosis
Abbreviation: MRI, magnetic resonance imaging.
deteriorate (safety net). Utilize a pe- • Clinical action: treat and monitor ment is normal.
riod of watchful waiting, with advice symptoms, discuss and document a • Born in TB-endemic country
about being more physically active clear strategy to follow if symptoms • Smoker
Level of Concern
deteriorate (safety net). Consider MRI • Feels unwell
if there is an increased suspicion of • Night pain, worsening symptoms
LOW HIGH pathology • Clinical action: urgent MRI and re-
Level of Concern
quest blood tests, discuss and docu-
ment a clear strategy to follow if
Case 2 LOW HIGH symptoms deteriorate (safety net)
A 43-year-old man reports a 3-month Level of Concern
history of LBP that is intermittent and
mechanical in nature. He was born in So- Case 3 LOW HIGH
malia and smokes 20 cigarettes per day. The man now feels unwell and has had a
He is neurologically intact and exhibits fever and chills in the last few days. He
normal function. reports pain at night and is unable to Case 4
• Born in TB-endemic country settle. His pain has now become constant The man has now developed neurologi-
• Smoker and more intense. Neurological assess- cal signs and symptoms, with back and

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syndrome. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2018;37:69- nal infection: a review of the literature. Acta fractures. Intern Emerg Med. 2019;14:85-102.
74. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2018.06.002 Neurochir (Wien). 2018;160:487-496. https://doi. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11739-018-1874-2
32. Greenhalgh S, Selfe J. Red Flags and Blue Lights: org/10.1007/s00701-018-3467-2 62. Oliver TB, Bhat R, Kellett CF, Adamson DJ.
Managing Serious Spinal Pathology. 2nd ed. 46. Levack P, Graham J, Collie D, et al. Don’t wait Diagnosis and management of bone metastases.
Edinburgh, UK: Elsevier; 2019. for a sensory level – listen to the symptoms: J R Coll Physicians Edinb. 2011;41:330-338.
33. Harel R, Angelov L. Spine metastases: current a prospective audit of the delays in diagnosis 63. Parreira PCS, Maher CG, Megale RZ, March L,
treatments and future directions. Eur J Cancer. of malignant cord compression. Clin Oncol Ferreira ML. An overview of clinical guidelines for
2010;46:2696-2707. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. (R Coll Radiol). 2002;14:472-480. https://doi. the management of vertebral compression frac-
ejca.2010.04.025 org/10.1053/clon.2002.0098 ture: a systematic review. Spine J. 2017;17:1932-
34. Henschke N, Maher CG, Ostelo RW, de Vet HC, 47. Lipman M, White J. Collaborative tuberculosis 1938. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2017.07.174
Macaskill P, Irwig L. Red flags to screen for malig- strategy for England. BMJ. 2015;350:h810. 64. Patel U, Skingle S, Campbell GA, Crisp AJ, Boyle
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org/10.1002/14651858.CD008686.pub2 management of cauda equina syndrome in 1991;30:418-421. https://doi.org/10.1093/
35. Henschke N, Maher CG, Refshauge KM, et al. the emergency department. Am J Emerg Med. rheumatology/30.6.418

65. Patrick JD, Doris PE, Mills ML, Friedman J, 73. Scavone JG, Latshaw RF, Rohrer GV. Use Koes BW. Red flags presented in current low
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study. Ann Emerg Med. 1983;12:84-87. https:// tion at a university teaching hospital. JAMA. 2016;25:2788-2802. https://doi.org/10.1007/
doi.org/10.1016/s0196-0644(83)80378-3 1981;246:1105-1108. https://doi.org/10.1001/ s00586-016-4684-0
66. Premkumar A, Godfrey W, Gottschalk MB, jama.1981.03320100041027 83. Wainwright A. Spinal infection. In: Bartley R,
Boden SD. Red flags for low back pain are not 74. Sciubba DM, Petteys RJ, Dekutoski MB, et al. Coffey P, eds. Management of Low Back Pain in
always really red: a prospective evaluation of Diagnosis and management of metastatic spine Primary Care. Oxford, UK: Elsevier/Butterworth-
the clinical utility of commonly used screening disease. A review. J Neurosurg Spine. 2010;13:94- Heinemann; 2001:ch 9.
questions for low back pain. J Bone Joint Surg 108. https://doi.org/10.3171/2010.3.SPINE09202 84. Watson J, Jones HE, Banks J, Whiting P, Salisbury
Am. 2018;100:368-374. https://doi.org/10.2106/ 75. Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. C, Hamilton W. Use of multiple inflammatory
JBJS.17.00134 Management of Osteoporosis and the Prevention marker tests in primary care: using Clinical
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London, UK: Public Health England; 2019. 76. Sendi P, Bregenzer T, Zimmerli W. Spinal epidural org/10.3399/bjgp19X704309
68. Reinus WR, Strome G, Zwemer FL, Jr. Use of abscess in clinical practice. QJM. 2008;101:1-12. 85. Williams CM, Henschke N, Maher CG, et al. Red
lumbosacral spine radiographs in a level II https://doi.org/10.1093/qjmed/hcm100 flags to screen for vertebral fracture in patients
presenting with low-back pain. Cochrane
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@ MORE INFORMATION
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Accessed April 16, 2020. 82. Verhagen AP, Downie A, Popal N, Maher C, WWW.JOSPT.ORG

APPENDIX A
DEFINITIONS
• Clinical risk/index of suspicion: relates to clinical risk factors and presenting clinical features. Once the index of suspicion passes a critical thresh-
old, the therapist will become concerned about the underlying cause of the person’s complaint3
• Emergency referral: this needs to reflect local pathways, but, as a guide, on the same day
• Experts by experience: patient representatives
• General practitioner review: follow-up by medical practitioner; onward medical management to be carried out by the general practitioner
• High level of evidence: evidence supported by the literature
• Investigations: refers to requesting imaging or ordering blood tests to aid diagnosis
• Low level of evidence: evidence supported by consensus and the steering group
• Red flag: Goodman and Snyder2 define red flags as features of the individual’s medical history and clinical examination thought to be associated
with a high risk of serious disorders such as infection, inflammation, cancer, or fracture. Red flags are clinical prediction guides—they are not diag-
nostic tests, and they are not necessarily predictors of diagnosis or prognosis. The main role of red flags is that, when combined, they help to raise
the clinician’s index of suspicion. Unfortunately, with a few exceptions, the prognostic strength of individual red flags or combinations of red flags is
not known3
• Safety netting: safety netting is a management strategy used for people who may present with possible serious pathology. These strategies should
include advice on which signs and symptoms to look out for, which action to take, and the time frame within which that action needs to be taken 4
• Shared decision making: the conversation that happens between a patient and a clinician to reach a health care choice together
• Urgent referral: this needs to reflect local pathways, but, as a guide, within 5 days
• Watchful waiting: the act of close surveillance while undergoing treatment as required, but allowing time to pass before medical intervention or
therapy is used1
REFERENCES
1. Cook CE, George SZ, Reiman MP. Red flag screening for low back pain: nothing to see here, move along: a narrative review. Br J Sports Med. 2018;52:493-496. https://doi.
org/10.1136/bjsports-2017-098352
2. Goodman CC, Snyder TEK. Screening for immunologic disease. In: Differential Diagnosis for Physical Therapists: Screening for Referral. 5th ed. St Louis, MO: Elsevier/
Saunders; 2013:ch 12.
3. Greenhalgh S, Selfe J. Red Flags II: A Guide to Solving Serious Pathology of the Spine. Edinburgh, UK: Elsevier/Churchill Livingstone; 2010.
4. Hirst Y, Lim AWW. Acceptability of text messages for safety netting patients with low-risk cancer symptoms: a qualitative study. Br J Gen Pract. 2018;68:e333-e341. https://
doi.org/10.3399/bjgp18X695741
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APPENDIX B
KEY PAPERS: EVIDENCE STATEMENTS

Pathology Papers Reviewed, n Patients, n Evidence Statement
CES1 7 569 Red flags commonly used to screen for CES are not robust enough to diagnose CES on their own, as their
diagnostic accuracy is poor. That being said, red flags still remain important clinical markers for the
suspicion of CES, as presently they are the best tools that general health care practitioners have to screen
for this serious condition
CES4 NA NA Policy document outlining best standards of care
In patients with symptoms suggestive of CES, with confirmed cauda equina compression on MRI, the recom-
mended treatment of choice is urgent surgical decompression
Nothing is to be gained by delaying surgery, and potentially there is much to be lost. Decompressive surgery
should be undertaken at the earliest opportunity, taking into consideration the duration of pre-existing
symptoms and the potential for increased morbidity, while operating in the small hours. We do not
consider that there is anything in the literature that justifies contravention of this principle. We recommend
that reasons for any delay in surgery be documented
CES5 NA NA A number of authors, including Henschke et al,7 Downie et al,2 and Verhagen et al,12 have published high-
quality review papers demonstrating that red flags have a weak evidence base
Fracture13 8 7378 The available evidence does not support the use of many red flags to specifically screen for vertebral fracture
in patients presenting with LBP. From the limited evidence, the findings give rise to a weak recommenda-
tion that a combination of a small subset of red flags may be useful to screen for vertebral fracture
Fracture11 NA NA NA
Fracture9 4 guidelines NA Overall, none of the guidelines was of satisfactory quality. The domains with the lowest scores were rigor of
development and applicability
Fracture3 NA NA NA
Fracture8 NA NA Evidence rating: C—consensus, disease-oriented evidence, usual practice, expert opinion, or case series
Malignancy6 8 7361 For most “red flags,” there is insufficient evidence to provide recommendations regarding their diagnostic
accuracy or usefulness for detecting spinal malignancy
Infection14 41 2058 The current evidence surrounding red flags for SI remains of low quality, and clinical features alone should
not be relied on to identify SI
Infection10 NA NA NA
Abbreviations: CES, cauda equina syndrome; LBP, low back pain; MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; NA, not applicable; SI, spinal infection.
REFERENCES
1. Dionne N, Adefolarin A, Kunzelman D, et al. What is the diagnostic accuracy of red flags related to Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES), when compared to Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI)? A systematic review. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2019;42:125-133. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2019.05.004
2. Downie A, Williams CM, Henschke N, et al. Red flags to screen for malignancy and fracture in patients with low back pain: systematic review. BMJ. 2013;347:f7095. https://
doi.org/10.1136/bmj.f7095
3. Esses SI, McGuire R, Jenkins J, et al. The treatment of symptomatic osteoporotic spinal compression fractures. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2011;19:176-182. https://doi.
org/10.5435/00124635-201103000-00007
4. Germon T, Ahuja S, Casey ATH, Todd NV, Rai A. British Association of Spine Surgeons standards of care for cauda equina syndrome. Spine J. 2015;15:S2-S4. https://doi.
org/10.1016/j.spinee.2015.01.006
5. Greenhalgh S, Finucane L, Mercer C, Selfe J. Assessment and management of cauda equina syndrome. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2018;37:69-74. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.
msksp.2018.06.002
6. Henschke N, Maher CG, Ostelo RW, de Vet HC, Macaskill P, Irwig L. Red flags to screen for malignancy in patients with low-back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.
2013:CD008686. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD008686.pub2
7. Henschke N, Maher CG, Refshauge KM, et al. Prevalence of and screening for serious spinal pathology in patients presenting to primary care settings with acute low back
pain. Arthritis Rheum. 2009;60:3072-3080. https://doi.org/10.1002/art.24853
8. McCarthy J, Davis A. Diagnosis and management of vertebral compression fractures. Am Fam Physician. 2016;94:44-50.
9. Parreira PCS, Maher CG, Megale RZ, March L, Ferreira ML. An overview of clinical guidelines for the management of vertebral compression fracture: a systematic review.
Spine J. 2017;17:1932-1938. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.spinee.2017.07.174
10. Public Health England. Tuberculosis in England: 2019 Report (presenting data to end of 2018). London, UK: Public Health England; 2019.
11. Royal Osteoporosis Society. Clinical guidance for the effective identification of vertebral fractures. Available at: https://www.guidelines.co.uk/musculoskeletal-and-joints-/
ros-guideline-identification-of-vertebral-fractures/454148.article. Accessed April 16, 2020.
12. Verhagen AP, Downie A, Popal N, Maher C, Koes BW. Red flags presented in current low back pain guidelines: a review. Eur Spine J. 2016;25:2788-2802. https://doi.
org/10.1007/s00586-016-4684-0
13. Williams CM, Henschke N, Maher CG, et al. Red flags to screen for vertebral fracture in patients presenting with low-back pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.
2013:CD008643. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD008643.pub2
14. Yusuf M, Finucane L, Selfe J. Red flags for the early detection of spinal infection in back pain patients. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2019;20:606. https://doi.org/10.1186/
s12891-019-2949-6
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APPENDIX C
RED FLAGS THAT GAINED CONSENSUS AS INAPPROPRIATE

Pathology Risk Factors Signs Symptoms Investigations
CES ... • Absent bulbocavernosus reflex • Saddle anesthesia • X-ray
• Bladder ultrasound
Fracture • BMI, <23 kg/m2 • Muscle spasm • Muscle spasm ...
• Recent back injury • Leg pain
• No regular exercise
• Family history of spinal fracture
• Smoking
• Alcohol intake, >14 units/wk
Malignancy • Failure to improve after 1 mo with • Muscle spasm • Muscle spasm • X-ray
conservative therapy • Fever recorded via thermometer (tem- • Insidious onset

• Duration of episode, >1 mo perature, >100°F/37.8°C) • Patient reports symptoms of fever
• Age, >50 y • Patient reports neurological symptoms
• Patient reports having tried bed rest,
with no relief
• Patient reports gradual onset before
age 40
Infection • Older age • Abscess • Patient reports stiffness • CT scan
• Spinal trauma • Paralysis • Patient reports feeling of tenderness
• Male sex • Active bacterial/fungal infection • Patient reports radiculopathy
• Lives in rural area • Sepsis/septic shock • Patient reports bladder/bowel dys-
• Ingestion of unpasteurized dairy • Weight loss (at least 4 kg) function
product • Observed spinal deformity • Patient reports urinary incontinence
• Blood pressure dysfunction • Anorexia (BMI, ≤19 kg/m2) • Weakness/extreme weakness
• Hepatosplenomegaly (liver and spleen • Arthralgia
enlargement) • Myalgia
• Anorexia
Abbreviations: BMI, body mass index; CES, cauda equina syndrome; CT, computed tomography.
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International Framework For Red Flags For Potential Serious Spinal Pathologies

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[ position statement ]

International Framework for Red Flags

where in the clinical pathway the clini-

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dence to guide practice, we built this

ion, and steering-group consensus, to Urgency

In 2016, the member organizations of IF- Monitor progress

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Person referred with

No concerning Some concerning

safety neta patient

Consider further investigation/referral

Primary Secondary Tertiary: ED Tertiary: Spine Center

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- Unilateral onset progressing to bilateral

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Trauma/surgery needles changed over time?

Functional symptoms: psychosocial presentation after?

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clinic, hospital, etc) because of this problem?

Low • When did the changes begin?

medications, codeine) Have you started any new medication?

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motor weakness (<3/5) or deteriorat-

Normal examination findings would not with a chaperone present

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fracture in the following year by 50% to 80%72 taking it?

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is the first course of

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gations. In breast cancer, MBD can occur

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area of metastasis reproduction of symptoms

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your legs? neurological symptoms, continue disturbance and coor-

or diabetes59 have lost weight?

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Res. 2017;38:73-77. https://doi.org/10.3233/ Right First Time; 2019. chive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20180903112728/.

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1998;170:443-447. https://doi.org/10.2214/ clinical practice. BMJ. 1998;317:339-342. https://

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KEY PAPERS: EVIDENCE STATEMENTS

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RED FLAGS THAT GAINED CONSENSUS AS INAPPROPRIATE

conservative therapy • Fever recorded via thermometer (tem- • Insidious onset

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