cauda equina neuritis

A nonsuppurative inflammation of the nerve trunks of the cauda equina in horses. It is characterized by paralysis of the tail, slackness of the anus and rectum which may lead to fecal incontinence, paralysis of the bladder sometimes with urinary incontinence, paresthesia or anesthesia of the tail and perineum, and incoordination of the hindlimbs. There may also be involvement of isolated cranial nerves. It is believed to be an immune-mediated disorder. Called also polyneuritis equi.