Related Experiment Videos

Acute transverse myelitis: MR characteristics

J M Murthy1, J J Reddy, A K Meena

  • 1Departments of Neurology and Radiology, Nizam's Institute of Medical Sciences, Panjagutta, Hyderabad, 500082, India.

Neurology India
|January 8, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals characteristic spinal cord lesions in acute transverse myelitis. Key findings include central high intensity signals and significant cord involvement, aiding diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Radiology
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • Acute transverse myelitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord.
  • Differentiating it from other myelopathies, such as multiple sclerosis, is crucial for appropriate treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and characterize the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in patients diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis.
  • To identify MRI features that can help distinguish acute transverse myelitis from the spinal form of multiple sclerosis.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of MRI scans from 13 patients with acute transverse myelitis.
  • Analysis of lesion location, signal intensity, cord involvement, and enhancement patterns.

Main Results:

  • Centrally located high intensity signals on MRI were observed in 12 out of 13 patients.
  • Lesions occupied more than two-thirds of the spinal cord's cross-sectional area in 8 patients.
  • The 'central dot sign' was present in 7 patients, and cord enlargement in 5.

Conclusions:

  • Specific MRI findings, including central high signal intensity and the 'central dot sign', are highly suggestive of acute transverse myelitis.
  • These imaging characteristics are valuable in differentiating acute transverse myelitis from spinal multiple sclerosis.

Related Concept Videos