What type of cord lesion is characterized by upper extremity involvement and occurs from a hyperextension injury?

The type of cord lesion characterized by upper extremity involvement due to a hyperextension injury is a central cord lesion. This type of injury typically occurs when there is damage to the central part of the spinal cord, often leading to more severe dysfunction in the upper extremities compared to the lower extremities.

Central cord syndrome is commonly associated with hyperextension injuries, which can occur during falls or other abrupt impacts causing excessive backward bending of the neck. In these cases, the neurons that control upper limb function are more affected, resulting in weakness or loss of sensation in the arms while the legs may remain relatively intact.

This unique pattern of motor and sensory impairment makes central cord syndrome distinct from other types of lesions, which may affect different areas of the spinal cord or have different presentations. For instance, anterior cord lesions typically affect motor function and pain and temperature sensation but spare proprioception and vibratory sense, while posterior lesions affect proprioception and fine touch, leading to specific deficits in balance and coordination.