Which neurologic finding may present with leg weakness as a symptom?

Cauda equina syndrome is characterized by compression of the nerve roots of the cauda equina, which can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms, including leg weakness. The cauda equina is a bundle of spinal nerves located in the lumbar region, and when it is compressed—often due to conditions such as herniated discs, tumors, or traumatic injury—sufferers may experience not only weakness in the legs but also a range of other symptoms, including bowel and bladder dysfunction, saddle anesthesia, and sensory loss.

Leg weakness occurs because the nerve roots that supply the lower extremities are affected in this syndrome. The degree of weakness can vary depending on the extent of nerve root compression, but it is a classic presentation with this condition.

Other options present different scenarios where leg weakness could be a symptom, but they do not specifically align with the comprehensive and serious nature of cauda equina syndrome. For example, while cervical radiculopathy can lead to arm weakness and sometimes may cause referred pain or weakness in the legs, it primarily affects the cervical spine rather than the lumbar region. An ankle sprain is a musculoskeletal injury and does not result in neurological symptoms, and peripheral neuropathy mostly causes sensory disturbances and weakness primarily in