Pediatric idiopathic transverse myelitis presenting as an anterior cord syndrome: a case report

Describe the case of an Anterior Cord Syndrome secondary to transverse myelitis. ANTERIOR CORD SYNDROME: Anterior Cord syndrome (ACS) is characterized by a lesion that affects the anterior two thirds of the spinal cord while preserving the posterior columns. TRANSVERSE MYELITIS: Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammatory disorder with a heterogeneous pathogenesis affecting the spinal cord at one or more segments, resulting in motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction in the absence of a preexisting neurological disease or spinal cord compression.

The patient was treated with methylprednisolone, IV Antibiotics, acyclovir, and inpatient rehabilitation.

The patient significantly improved her function throughout inpatient rehabilitation and was discharged after achieving modified independent level with ambulation and all activities of daily living. The patient also gained independence with an intermittent catheterization program and a nightly bowel program, which included suppository and digital stimulation.

This case illustrates the first documented pediatric patient with a unique case of Anterior Cord Syndrome caused by idiopathic transverse myelitis.