What Is Transverse Myelitis
Transverse myelitis is an inflammation of both sides of one section of the spinal cord. This neurological disorder often damages the insulating material covering nerve cell fibers (myelin). Transverse myelitis interrupts the messages that the spinal cord nerves send throughout the body. An infection precedes the onset of transverse myelitis about 50% of the time. Transverse myelitis often develops following viral infections such as varicella zoster (the virus that causes chicken pox and shingles), herpes simplex, cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr, influenza, echovirus, HIV, hepatitis A, and rubella. Consult a doctor for medical advice.
Symptoms
- Bladder dysfunction and/or bowel motility problems
- Pain and discomfort
- Sensory symptoms such as numbness or tingling
- Weakness in the arms/legs
Treatment
- Antiviral medication
- Intravenous steroids
- Medications to prevent recurrent attacks of transverse myelitis
- Pain medication
- Plasma exchange therapy
