Transverse myelitis with positive dengue virus serology: a case report

Abstract

Background: Transverse myelitis is an inflammation of the spinal cord that spreads along the horizontal plane of a section of the spinal cord. Arboviruses, including dengue virus, are rare but known causative factors. However, this association and underlying pathophysiology is unclear. We report a case of transverse myelitis in a patient with a dengue viral infection. Case presentation: A 38-year-old man presented with fever followed by acute paraplegia and urinary retention. His workup was positive for serum IgM antibodies against dengue virus and imaging of the spine showed inflammation in multiple sections of the spinal cord. A diagnosis of TM secondary to a dengue infection was made. He was managed with high dose of methylprednisolone for 5 days followed by oral tapering dose. The weakness subsequently improved with full recovery on follow-up visits. Conclusions: TM secondary to acute dengue infection is a rarely reported consequence. Timely diagnosis and treatment can cause significant reduction in the otherwise resultant morbidity.