In the paraplegia scenario, which imaging finding supports the diagnosis?

• A. Lumbar spine MRI injury
• B. Brain MRI
• C. Neck CT
• D. Pelvic X-ray

Answer: (A)

Paraplegia usually points to injury or compression within the spinal cord at the thoracic–lumbar level. To confirm and characterize the cause, imaging needs to directly visualize the spinal canal and cord in the region most likely affected. A lumbar spine MRI provides a detailed view of the spinal cord or cauda equina, nerve roots, intervertebral discs, and surrounding soft tissues, making it the best tool to detect compression, edema, contusion, disc herniation, epidural hematoma, or other pathology that could explain leg weakness and sensory loss. This targeted information is essential for diagnosing the underlying lesion and guiding urgent management.

Brain MRI would be aimed at intracranial causes and is not the most relevant for isolated paraplegia. Neck CT focuses on the cervical region and may miss lesions lower down the spine. Pelvic X-ray shows bony structures but does not assess the spinal cord or soft-tissue causes of paraplegia.