What is Transverse Myelitis?

Transverse Myelitis is an illness that can affect people of all ages – from the youngest to the oldest.

It is a neurological syndrome caused by inflamation of the spinal cord. Initial symptoms may include back pain, rash, headache, weakness, numbness and/or tingling of the legs, and general discomfort which can then lead to loss of muscle power, sensory symptoms (pins and needles) and bladder and bowel dysfunction. It may occur alone or in combination with disease elsewhere in the nervous system.

Its causes include demyelisation (loss of the fatty tissue around the nerves) and autoimmune mechanisms. Similar symptoms may also occur in spinal cord ischemia (loss of blood flow). It is uncommon but not rare and occurs in both adults and children.

Almost all patients develop leg weakness of varying degrees of severity. Fewer will experience arm problems. Pain and temperature appreciation are lessened in most patients. Progression to immobility may be rapid and patients may be immobile within hours or days of the onset of symptoms.

Transverse Myelitis may occur as a complication of such disorders as neuromyelitis optica, multiple sclerosis, smallpox, measles or chickenpox. In some patients, no cause can be found, despite extensive investigation.

Recovery is different for each person: some people retain the level of paralysis they experience from the initial onset ie. paraplegia or quadriplegia.

The Spinal Injuries Association is the national body for people with Transverse Myelitis in Australia and holds data that can link people who have the condition with others in their region to provide peer support and the benefits of networking with others who experience the same condition.

For more information please contact the Association.