7th June 2021

A 64-year-old man presents to A&E with sudden onset upper back pain and bilateral leg weakness

A 64-year-old man presents to A&E with sudden onset upper back pain and bilateral leg weakness. These symptoms came on suddenly several hours ago, with no associated trauma. The doctor performs a neurological examination, the findings of which lead them to suspect anterior spinal artery syndrome. The patient has a past medical history of hypertension and TIAs. An urgent MRI spine is requested, and a CT head is also obtained, which is normal.

What is the most immediate treatment that should be given?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.