Does myelitis affect the brain?
As with transverse myelitis, the inflammation causes damage to the myelin sheath surrounding the axons which carry messages (nerve impulses) in the brain and spinal cord.
What are the long term effects of transverse myelitis?
Some people who get transverse myelitis are left with permanent physical disabilities, such as muscle stiffness, loss of bowel or bladder function, muscle weakness, or even paralysis. If you have any of these impairments, physical therapy will likely be a very important part of your treatment.
Can transverse myelitis cause brain lesions?
In transverse myelitis there is usually a single lesion in the spinal cord and none in the brain, whereas in multiple sclerosis (MS) there are multiple attacks of inflammation and lesions throughout the brain and spinal cord.
Is transverse myelitis serious?
Call your doctor or get emergency medical care if you’re experiencing signs and symptoms of transverse myelitis. A number of neurological disorders can cause sensory problems, weakness, and bladder or bowel dysfunction including compression of the spinal cord, which is a surgical emergency.
What is the prognosis for transverse myelitis?
Prognosis. Although most people with transverse myelitis have at least partial recovery, it may take a year or more. Most recovery occurs within the first three months after the episode and strongly depends on the cause of transverse myelitis.
Can you walk again after transverse myelitis?
According to experts, one-third of TM patients recover very well from the initial onset attack: They regain the ability to walk normally and experience minimal urinary or bowel effects.
In general, transverse myelitis that is not caused by another disorder is a one-time disease and does not require continuing treatment other than whatever rehabilitation is necessary for the best recovery possible.
Is transverse myelitis a symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS)?
In some people, transverse myelitis represents the first symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS) or neuromyelitis optica (NMO). A form of transverse myelitis called “partial” myelitis (as it affects only a portion of the cross-sectional area of the spinal cord) is more characteristic of MS.
How do I contact Gard about transverse myelitis?
Please reach out to a GARD Information Specialist at 301-251-4925. Transverse myelitis is a neurological disorder caused by inflammation of the spinal cord, which carries nerve signals from the brain to the rest of the body. The segment of the spinal cord that has inflammation or damage determines the symptoms a person has.
What tests are used to diagnose transverse myelitis?
Lumbar puncture and spinal fluid analysis (also called spinal tap) can identify more protein than usual in some people with transverse myelitis and an increased number of white blood cells (leukocytes) that help the body fight infections.