Transverse Myelitis: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment Of Transverse Myelitis
Explore all about Transverse Myelitis, a neurological condition caused by spinal cord damage. Learn everything about it, right from its causes to its prevention and treatment methods.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 3rd Mar, 2026
Transverse myelitis (TM) is a rare and complex neurological condition which occurs due to inflammation in the spinal cord. The spinal cord is a vital part of the body. It extends from the brainstem to the lower back, and its function is to transmit signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
When inflammation damages the protective myelin sheath surrounding the nerve cells, it disrupts these signals. This leads to a range of symptoms, such as loss of sensation, impaired movement, and difficulty with bladder control.
This article discusses everything that is to know about transverse myelitis. It will explore its causes, symptoms, and treatment options for improved management.
Causes of Transverse Myelitis
The cause of transverse myelitis (TM) is not fully understood, and in some cases, no clear cause can be identified. However, certain causes have been underlined by professionals through the years. These include:
Infections: Some infections, such as viral, bacterial, or fungal, can lead to TM by affecting the spinal cord. Often, the inflammation develops after the body has recovered from the infection.
Multiple sclerosis (MS): It is an autoimmune disorder that damages the myelin around nerves in the spinal cord and brain. TM can be the first sign of MS or a relapse of it. When TM occurs with MS, it usually affects only one side of the body.
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO): Also known as Devic’s disease, NMO causes inflammation and myelin loss around both the spinal cord and the optic nerve. TM associated with NMO typically affects both sides of the body.
Autoimmune disorders: Some disorders, such as lupus and Sjogren's syndrome, may also contribute to TM. These conditions affect various body systems, with lupus targeting multiple organs and Sjogren's syndrome causing severe dryness in the mouth and eyes.
Though rare, vaccinations for infectious diseases have been linked to TM in some cases. However, the connection is not strong enough to discourage vaccination.
Risk Factors
No one can really predict the conditions that may lead to someone being diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, but here are a few risk factors that might help gauge who can be more susceptible to it:
Age and Gender Considerations: Transverse myelitis (TM) can affect people of any age, though it is most common in those between 10-19 years and 30-39 years old. Both men and women can develop TM, but women may have a slightly higher risk, particularly when it is linked to autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, which are more common in females.
Genetic Predispositions: There isn’t a strong genetic link to transverse myelitis, but people with autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or multiple sclerosis, may have a higher chance of developing it. A family history of autoimmune diseases could increase the risk, but TM is generally considered sporadic, with most cases occurring without a clear genetic connection.
Environmental Factors: Infections are a major trigger for TM, with viruses like Epstein-Barr, herpes simplex, and even Lyme disease being linked to the condition.
Though rare, vaccines for diseases like influenza or hepatitis have occasionally been associated with triggering TM. Additionally, autoimmune responses triggered by infections can lead to inflammation in the spinal cord, contributing to the development of the condition.
Symptoms of Transverse Myelitis
Some of the symptoms found for transverse myelitis include:
Experience neck or back pain
Weakness in the arms or legs
Unusual sensations in the legs, such as burning, tingling, or prickling
There may be a loss of bladder or bowel control
Increased sensitivity to touch
The location of symptoms depends on the part of the spinal cord affected. Inflammation in the neck usually causes symptoms from the neck down, while inflammation in the middle of the spine tends to affect the body from the waist down.
Diagnosis
To diagnose transverse myelitis, a healthcare provider typically begins with a review of the patient’s medical history and a thorough physical examination. Since the condition can be linked to various treatable causes, additional tests may be necessary to identify or rule out these underlying factors.
Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI scans are often used to detect inflammation or other abnormalities in the spinal cord. Blood tests may be performed, and a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) may also be considered. A lumbar puncture is the insertion of a needle into the spinal canal. It helps collect a small sample of cerebrospinal fluid for analysis. If no specific cause for transverse myelitis is identified after all tests, the condition is classified as idiopathic (disease of unknown cause).
Treatment Options
While there is no definitive cure for transverse myelitis, treatment focuses on managing symptoms, reducing inflammation, and preventing long-term neurological damage. Severe cases may require hospitalisation.
High-dose steroids are commonly used to suppress immune activity and decrease swelling in the spinal cord. Pain-relieving medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, immune-suppressing drugs, and medicines targeting nerve pain may also be prescribed.
If steroids are ineffective, plasma exchange therapy (plasmapheresis) may be considered. This procedure replaces the plasma in the blood with specialised fluids to remove harmful antibodies and proteins causing inflammation.
Consult Top Neurologists For Transverse Myelitis Treatment
Prognosis and Long-term Outcomes
The outlook for transverse myelitis varies greatly. It is influenced by the severity, underlying cause, and how quickly treatment begins. Some individuals recover completely within months, while others may face lingering symptoms or long-term complications. Early intervention with treatments like corticosteroids or plasma exchange can significantly improve recovery by minimising inflammation and nerve damage.
Long-Term Outcomes
Full Recovery: Approximately one-third of individuals regain normal motor and sensory functions.
Partial Recovery: Another third may experience ongoing symptoms, such as muscle weakness, chronic pain, or bladder and bowel issues.
Severe Disability: The remaining third may face permanent disabilities, such as paralysis or sensory impairments, particularly in cases of delayed treatment or extensive spinal cord damage.
Coping and Support Resources
Coping with transverse myelitis requires a combination of emotional, physical, and social support. Here are key resources that can help:
Medical Support: Work with neurologists, rehabilitation therapists, and pain specialists to manage symptoms and recovery.
Support Groups: Join organisations like the Transverse Myelitis Association (TMA) or online communities for emotional support and shared experiences.
Mental Health: Seek counselling and practice mindfulness techniques to manage stress and emotional challenges.
Assistive Devices: Use mobility aids and make home modifications for better independence and accessibility.
Financial Assistance: Access patient advocacy groups for help with insurance, disability benefits, and workplace accommodations.
Prevention and Risk Management
Here are some prevention and risk management techniques:
Infection Prevention: Reducing exposure to infections is key. Practising good hygiene, staying up-to-date on vaccinations, and avoiding contact with sick individuals can help lower the risk of infections that may trigger transverse myelitis.
Timely Treatment of Infections: Seeking prompt medical care for viral or bacterial infections can decrease the likelihood of immune-related complications that may lead to inflammation in the spinal cord.
Managing Autoimmune Conditions: Individuals with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or multiple sclerosis, should follow their treatment plans to control inflammation and lower the risk of developing transverse myelitis.
Post-Vaccination Monitoring: While rare, unusual neurological symptoms following vaccination should be addressed promptly by consulting a healthcare provider to ensure early intervention.
Healthy Lifestyle: Supporting overall health through a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management helps maintain a strong immune system and reduces potential risk factors.
Conclusion
Transverse myelitis is a challenging condition, but understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options empowers individuals to take informed steps toward recovery. Early diagnosis and timely intervention can improve outcomes, while ongoing medical care and support are vital for managing symptoms and enhancing quality of life.
Though the prognosis varies, many individuals achieve significant recovery with appropriate care. By adopting preventive measures and leveraging available resources, those affected can navigate the challenges of transverse myelitis with resilience and hope.
Consult Top Neurologists
Consult Top Neurologists For Transverse Myelitis Treatment
Dr. Ganeshgouda Majigoudra
Neurologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE) DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(200+ Patients)
Dr. Jaidev S
Neurosurgeon
10 Years • MBBS, MS ( Genera Surgery), MCH Neurolosurgery
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Indiranagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anusha D
Neurologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (Neuro), DNB (Neuro)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(150+ Patients)
Dr Debnath Dwaipayan
Neurosurgeon
9 Years • MBBS, MS(Gen. Surgery), DrNB (Neurosurgery)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi
Consult Top Neurologists
Dr. Ganeshgouda Majigoudra
Neurologist
10 Years • MBBS, MD ( GENERAL MEDICINE) DM (NEUROLOGY)
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)
Manikonda Jagir
Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir
(200+ Patients)
Dr. Jaidev S
Neurosurgeon
10 Years • MBBS, MS ( Genera Surgery), MCH Neurolosurgery
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Indiranagar, Bengaluru
Dr. Anusha D
Neurologist
16 Years • MBBS, MD, DM (Neuro), DNB (Neuro)
Chennai
Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai
(150+ Patients)
Dr Debnath Dwaipayan
Neurosurgeon
9 Years • MBBS, MS(Gen. Surgery), DrNB (Neurosurgery)
Delhi
Apollo Hospitals Indraprastha, Delhi