Acute Transverse Myelitis

Acute transverse myelitis is an inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord characterized by sudden-onset motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction below the level of the lesion. Etiologies include autoimmune, post-infectious, paraneoplastic, or idiopathic processes. MRI typically reveals focal spinal cord lesions, while cerebrospinal fluid may show pleocytosis or elevated protein. Management involves high-dose intravenous corticosteroids, plasma exchange, or immunoglobulin therapy in refractory cases. Prognosis varies, with some patients achieving full recovery, whereas others experience permanent deficits, particularly with severe or extensive lesions.