What serious complication can occur due to a massive central herniation of a lumbar disc?

A massive central herniation of a lumbar disc can lead to cauda equina syndrome, which is a serious neurological condition resulting from the compression of the cauda equina, a bundle of spinal nerves located at the lower end of the spinal cord. This compression can impair the function of the nerves that innervate the pelvic organs, bladder, bowel, and lower extremities.

The presentation of cauda equina syndrome includes symptoms such as severe lower back pain, weakness or numbness in the legs, saddle anesthesia (numbness in the groin area), and loss of bowel or bladder control. It is considered a medical emergency because prompt diagnosis and surgical intervention are required to prevent permanent neurological damage.

In contrast, the other options do not represent immediate complications directly linked to massive central disc herniation. Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that typically develops over time and is not an acute complication of disc herniation. A herniated sacral disc refers to a herniation occurring in the sacral region specifically, which is not a direct result of a massive central herniation of a lumbar disc. Discitis is an infection of the disc space, which, while serious, is not a direct consequence