Related Experiment Videos
[Transverse myelitis caused by Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection]
J F Albucher1, D Lauque, I Geyer
1Dpartement de Neurologie, CHU de Purpan, Toulouse.
Abstract:
A twenty-six year old man was admitted for febrile atypical pneumoniae. Few hours later, he presented an acute flaccid paraplegia with dorsal pain. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed a high leukocyte count with raised protein level. Neuroradiological examinations (myelography and MRI) were normal. Seric immunological disorders were reported. High complement-fixing antibody titers to Mycoplasma pneumoniae were found in the serum and in the CSF. The patient was treated with antibiotic and corticosteroids. He improved dramatically within one month. Neurological complications of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections have been described (meningoencephalitis, meningitidis, polyradiculoneuropathies, cerebellar ataxia, cranial nerve palsies). Nineteen cases of transverse myelitis induced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae have been previously reported. Pathophysiological mechanisms of nervous system complications induced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae were discussed. Vascular mechanisms, direct invasion by the pathogen, toxic, immunological causes were examined.
Insights
Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection can cause acute flaccid paraplegia, a rare neurological complication. Prompt treatment with antibiotics and corticosteroids led to dramatic recovery in a patient with transverse myelitis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a common cause of atypical pneumonia.
- Neurological complications, though rare, can occur secondary to Mycoplasma pneumoniae infections.
Observation:
- A 26-year-old male presented with febrile atypical pneumonia followed by acute flaccid paraplegia and dorsal pain.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed elevated leukocytes and protein.
- Neuroradiological imaging (myelography, MRI) was unremarkable.
Findings:
- High complement-fixing antibody titers to Mycoplasma pneumoniae were detected in serum and cerebrospinal fluid.
- The patient exhibited seric immunological disorders.
- Nineteen prior cases of Mycoplasma pneumoniae-induced transverse myelitis have been documented.
Implications:
- This case highlights Mycoplasma pneumoniae as a potential trigger for transverse myelitis.
- Understanding the pathophysiology, including immunological mechanisms, is crucial for managing these rare neurological sequelae.
- Early diagnosis and combined antibiotic and corticosteroid therapy can lead to significant neurological recovery.