Transverse Myelitis (TM)
Transverse Myelitis is an inflammatory disorder caused by damage to the spinal cord. When this damage occurs, nerve communication along the spinal cord to the rest of the body is interrupted. The location of damage on the spinal cord determines which part of the body does not receive nerve signals, causing a loss of sensation and muscle function to that area. The cause of this condition is not always known. However, several conditions are known to cause transverse myelitis such as infection and immune system disorders, as well as some inflammatory or vascular disorders. The four classic signs of TM are (1) weakness of the legs and/or arms, (2) lower back pain or sensation that radiates down the limbs or around the torso, (3) sensory issues (such numbness, tingling, coldness), and (4) bowel and/or bladder dysfunction.
Related Indications
Schedule a Consultation
Research
The antero-posterior diameter of the lumbar dural sac does not predict sensory levels of spinal anesthesia for Cesarean delivery.
Abstract: The lumbosacral cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volume, as assessed by magnetic resonance imaging, is a major determinant of the intrathecal spread of local anesthetics. Ultrasound imaging of the lumbar spine allows measurement of dural sac dimensions, which we...
Microsurgical reconstruction for radiation necrosis: an evolving disease.
Abstract: We performed a retrospective chart review of a tertiary care medical center. Our objective was to report our experience with microvascular reconstruction in the head and neck in patients who presented with radiation-induced tissue damage. We will discuss the...
Clinical observation: Beau’s lines on fingernails after deep saturation dives.
Abstract: Transverse furrows, or Beau's lines, were noted in the fingernails of all 6 divers following a deep saturation dive to apressure equal to 1100 feet (335 meters) ofsea water (3,370 kPa), and in 2 of6 divers following a similar dive to 1000 feet (305 meters)...