Transverse Myelitis
Transverse Myelitis Causes
The disease is presumably caused by viral infections or vaccinations and has also been associated with spinal cord injuries, immune reactions, schistosomiasis, and insufficient blood flow to the spinal cord vessels.
Transverse Myelitis Definition
Caused by an inflammatory process of the grey and white matter of the spinal cord, Transverse myelitis is a neurological disorder that can also cause axonal demyelination.
Transverse Myelitis Diagnosis
In diagnosing transverse myelitis, a general history and physical examination are first performed but these do not give clues of spinal cord injury. Physicians usually suggest MRI or a myelography. This is to rule out a compressive lesion and avoid a surgery that might reverse neurologic injury to the spinal cord.
Transverse Myelitis Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms of the disease include weakness and numbness of the limbs, motor, sensory, and sphincter deficits. Some patients may experience severe backpain at the onset of the disease. Leg weakness of varying degrees of severity is also commonly experienced by almost all patients. In a minority of cases, the arms are also involved, depending on the level of spinal cord involvement. A lot of patients also complain of a tight banding or girdle-like sensation around the trunk, which may also be very sensitive to touch.
Transverse Myelitis Treatment
Treatment of the disease is usually symptomatic. Application of corticosteroids achieved limited success.