Acute transverse myelitis

Abstract

Acute transverse myelitis is a rare disorder of children and adults. It presents with rapidly progressive weakness of the legs accompanied by sensory loss and sphincter control. The first priority is to rule out a compressive lesion of the spinal cord and a gadolinium-enhanced MRI of the spinal cord should be obtained as soon as possible after presentation. The role of steroids is unclear in the treatment of this condition, however can be used. Rehabilitation interventions are an essential component to managing the chronic aspects of this disorder.