What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse myelitis is a rather rare neurological disorder characterized by inflammation on both sides of a section of the spinal cord. Inflammation of this type can disrupt the usually normal communication between the nerves in the spinal cord and those parts of the body.

This can cause a lot of neurological problems to arise. While able to occur in any person regardless of age and sex, transverse myelitis may result from infections, disorders of the immune system, or even unknown causes.

Causes of Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis can be caused by several factors, including:

• Infections: Herpes, Epstein-Barr virus, and HIV are some examples of viral infections that may lead to spinal cord inflammation. In some cases, even bacterial infections like Lyme disease or syphilis could be the causative factor.
• Immune System Disorders: The immune system at times misfires and starts attacking the spinal cord of the body itself, causing it to get inflamed. Multiple sclerosis or neuromyelitis optica can be associated with transverse myelitis.
• Vaccinations and allergic reactions: Quite rarely, some vaccinations or very severe allergic reactions can lead to an immune response that affects the spinal cord.
• Idiopathic: The cause for many cases of transverse myelitis remains idiopathic.

Symptoms of Transverse Myelitis

The symptoms of transverse myelitis can vary to a great extent depending on the segment of the spinal cord at issue. Some common symptoms include:

• Weakness in the Limbs: This may manifest as mild weakness or even complete paralysis. It characteristically affects both legs but can also present with involvement of the upper limbs.
• Pain: Many people experience sharp, sharp, shooting pains down the arms or legs or around the torso. The pain can also be very severe or debilitating.
• Sensory Changes: People may experience numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in their arms and legs or other areas.
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction: The inability to urinate or pass stool is common due to the involvement of the spinal cord in neural regulation for such functions.
• Spasticity: Muscle stiffness and spasm, sometimes painful and incapacitating.

Diagnosis of Transverse Myelitis

Diagnosis of transverse myelitis usually includes clinical assessment, imaging studies, and in very rare instances, laboratory investigations. A physician will more than likely conduct a detailed neurological examination and probably order the following tests:

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This imaging test can reveal inflammation of the spinal cord and help to rule out other causes for the symptoms.
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): The cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the spinal column is collected to test for inflammation or infection.
• Laboratory Tests: Blood tests can provide evidence of infection, autoimmune disorders, or other diseases that can cause symptoms.

Conclusion

Whereas others recover considerably in a matter of weeks or months, some are permanently neurologically impaired. In the same breath, support from healthcare providers, family members, and support groups could be vital in dealing with the physical and emotional tolls that result from transverse myelitis.

Dr. Navin Tiwari
Consulting Neurologist