Departemen Neurologi FK USU

Transverse Myelitis is a clinical syndrome in which an immune-mediated process causes neural injury to the spinal cord. Transverse Myelitis is characterized by focal inflammation within the spinal cord and clinical manifestations are due to resultant neural dysfunction of motor, sensory and autonomic pathway within and passing through the inflamed area. The mechanism of transverse myelitis is often unknown, suggesting an autoimmune reaction. Diagnosis is usually by MRI, CSF analysis, and blood tests. Transverse Myelitis may exist as part of a multi-focal CNS disease, multi-systemic disease, or as an isolated, idiopathic entity. Treatment is directed at the cause or associated disorder but is otherwise supportive. IV corticosteroids and plasma exchange may be helpful early. The more rapid the progression is the worse prognosis. About 1/3 of patients recover, 1/3 retain some weakness and urinary urgency, and 1/3 are bedridden and incontinent. This is a case report of male, 20 years, admitted to RSUP. H. Adam Malik Medan with major complain is weakness in both of lower extremities. From neurologic examination we found spastic paraparesis, increased APR/KPR reflex on both extremities, pathologic reflex on both extremities, hypoestesia, anhydrosis in L1-L2, and retention urine et alvi. From MRI thoracic spine shows suspect transverse myelitis within Th3-Th7.The patient diagnosed as transverse myelitis.

Key word : transverse myelitis-inflammation-autoimmune reaction