Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis after Campylobacter jejuni enteritis

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Infectious Diseases
• Autoimmune Disorders

Background:

• Campylobacter jejuni infection is a known trigger for Guillain-Barré syndrome via molecular mimicry.
• This mimicry involves C. jejuni lipo-oligosaccharides and human gangliosides in the peripheral nervous system.
• Autoimmune central nervous system disorders are rare following C. jejuni infections despite ganglioside presence.

Observation:

• A patient developed longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis.
• This occurred after experiencing C. jejuni enteritis.
• The patient also had antiganglioside antibodies.

Findings:

• Campylobacter jejuni enteritis can precipitate longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis.
• This condition is associated with antiganglioside antibodies.
• The mechanism may involve immune-mediated attacks on the central nervous system.

Implications:

• C. jejuni infections should be considered in parainfectious cases of transverse myelitis.
• Antiganglioside antibodies may serve as biomarkers for this neurological complication.
• Further research is needed to understand the specific pathways linking C. jejuni to CNS autoimmunity.