Acute transverse myelitis is swelling that affects the sides of a part of the spine, leading to symptoms such as the spread of pain, weakness of the legs or arms, paralysis and even decreased sensitivity of the hands, even if times are confused with polio. Guillian-Barré syndrome: traumatic neuritis.
Its main characteristic is inflammation of the spine, which causes paralysis and weak and weak muscles, a situation called acute flaccid myelitis.
- Generally this inflammation is caused by an infection.
- But it can also occur due to an autoimmune disease that eventually attacks the cells of the spinal cord.
- And can even affect children.
- This disease could exist in the context of a central nervous system disease.
- Such as multiple sclerosis.
- A multisystem disease such as systemic lupus erythematosus.
- The isolated form.
Although transverse myelitis can still be completely cured, it can be treated with medications and physiotherapy to relieve most symptoms and restore quality of life.
The first symptoms of transverse myelitis may get worse over time or hours.
Because myelitis affects the set of myelin nerve cells, the transmission of nerve stimuli is affected over time and, therefore, symptoms develop, making them more intense and causing paralysis.
Whenever there are symptoms that may indicate a problem in the spine, it is very important to consult a doctor to diagnose the disease and start treatment before the lesions are difficult to resolve, in this situation, after diagnosis, it is normal for the person to be referred to a neurologist.
To diagnose transverse myelitis, a neurologist should be consulted with a neurologist when it comes to a spinal problem, your doctor, in addition to evaluating symptoms and a history of diseases, may order diagnostic tests such as MRI, lumbar puncture. and several blood tests, which help rule out other diseases.
The exact cause of transverse myelitis is not yet known, however, certain conditions appear to increase the risk of developing this condition such as:
Although this is very rare, there are also reports of transverse myelitis after the application of the hepatitis B vaccine or measles, paper and chickenpox.
Treatment of myelitis varies greatly in each case, but usually begins with the use of medications to prevent possible infections, reduce inflammation of the bone marrow and relieve symptoms, thus improving the quality of life. Some of the most commonly used medications include:
After initial treatment, and when symptoms are poorly controlled, your doctor may recommend physical therapy sessions to help strengthen your muscles and practice coordination, as they may be affected by the disease.
In some cases, occupational therapy sessions may be necessary for the person to learn how to perform daily activities with new limitations that may arise as a result of the disease.