Recurrent transverse myelitis associated with collagen disease

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Immunology
• Rheumatology

Background:

• Acute transverse myelitis (ATM) is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord.
• Recurrent episodes of ATM can indicate an underlying systemic autoimmune disease.

Observation:

• A 43-year-old woman experienced four recurrences of ATM over seven years, localized to the T5 vertebral level.
• Hematological and immunological tests revealed anti-DNA and anti-nRNP antibodies and low serum complement levels.

Findings:

• The patient's clinical presentation and serological markers strongly suggest an underlying diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
• Despite the absence of other typical SLE symptoms, the neurological manifestations were prominent.

Implications:

• This case highlights the importance of considering SLE in patients with recurrent ATM, even with atypical presentations.
• Effective treatment of ATM was achieved with corticosteroids, including methylprednisolone and prednisolone.