A case of acute transverse myelitis affecting the entire length of the spinal cord

Mycoplasma pneumoniae-associated myelitis: a comprehensive review

Myelitis is one of the most severe central nervous system complications seen in association with Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections and both acute transverse myelitis (ATM) as well as acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) have been observed. We reviewed all available literature on cases of Mycoplasma spp. associated ATM as well as ADEM with dominant spinal cord pathology and classified those cases according to the strength of evidence implicating M. pneumoniae as the cause. A wide range of data on diagnosis, epidemiology, immunopathogenesis, clinical picture, laboratory diagnosis, neuroimaging and treatment for this rare entity is presented. The use of highly sensitive and specific molecular diagnostic techniques may assist in clearly elucidating the role of M. pneumoniae in ATM/ADEM syndromes in the near future. Immunomodulating therapies may have a role in treating such cases.

Transverse myelitis associated with herpes simplex virus infection

The case of an otherwise healthy 6-year-old boy with symptoms and signs of acute transverse myelitis is presented. The diagnosis was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. An episode of gingivostomatitis had preceded, and serology indicated herpes simplex virus type 1 infection. The child recovered gradually, and no relapses were noted during a 30-month follow-up period.

Transverse myelopathy: an initial presentation of acute leukemia

An 8-year-old female with a history of back pain and loss of the ability to walk is presented. Transverse myelopathy was considered clinically after assessing magnetic resonance imaging results of the thoracic spine. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia was diagnosed approximately 5 months after the beginning of symptoms. Reviewing the related literature suggests that transverse myelopathy is not uncommon in neoplastic diseases. Children with a disorder of the spinal cord, especially if accompanied with fatigue and anemia, might have transverse myelopathy-associated malignant disease. Transverse myelopathy can be the initial presentation of acute lymphoblastic leukemia.