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Recurrent acute transverse myelopathy associated with anticardiolipin antibodies
1Department of Neuroradiology, Scientific Institute H.S. Raffaele, University of Milan, Italy.
Abstract:
In three patients with recurrent episodes of acute transverse myelopathy, spinal MR imaging during each episode showed areas of hyperintensity on proton density- and T2-weighted images with inconsistent contrast enhancement. Cranial MR imaging, laboratory screenings, and CSF analysis showed only increased titers of anticardiolipin antibodies. Although a causative role in neurologic conditions has not been established conclusively, an association between these antibodies and acute transverse myelopathy and its recurrences cannot be ignored.
Insights
Recurrent acute transverse myelopathy in three patients was linked to elevated anticardiolipin antibodies. Further research is needed to confirm this association in neurological conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Immunology
- Radiology
Background:
- Acute transverse myelopathy (ATM) is an inflammatory condition affecting the spinal cord.
- Recurrent episodes of ATM can lead to significant neurological deficits.
- The etiology of recurrent ATM remains incompletely understood.
Observation:
- Spinal MR imaging in three patients revealed hyperintensities on proton density- and T2-weighted images during myelopathy episodes.
- Contrast enhancement patterns on MRI were inconsistent across episodes.
- Cranial MRI, laboratory tests, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis were performed.
Findings:
- Elevated titers of anticardiolipin antibodies were detected in all three patients.
- No other significant abnormalities were identified in laboratory screenings or CSF analysis.
- A potential association between anticardiolipin antibodies and recurrent ATM is suggested.
Implications:
- Anticardiolipin antibodies may play a role in the pathogenesis of recurrent acute transverse myelopathy.
- This association warrants further investigation to establish a conclusive causative link.
- Understanding this association could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for ATM.