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Archivos de Medicina de Urgencia de México

2025, Number 2-3

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Arch Med Urg Mex 2025; 17 (2-3)

Transverse myelitis in the emergency department: a narrative review

Miño-Bernal JF, Serna-Trejos JS, Bermúdez-Moyano SG, Castro-Galvis CA

Language: Spanish
References: 48
Page: 186-197
PDF size: 597.44 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammatory process of the spinal cord that causes motor, sensory, and autonomic disturbances. Its clinical presentation is variable and affects both adults and children, with a predominance in women and a bimodal distribution pattern between the second and fourth decades of life. Its origin is diverse, ranging from compressive causes (trauma, tumors) to non-compressive causes, including viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and demyelinating disorders. Among the latter, neuromyelitis optica, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Sjögren’s syndrome stand out. Diagnosis requires ruling out other entities using clinical criteria, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and magnetic resonance imaging. The therapeutic approach usually begins with intravenous corticosteroids, reserving options such as plasmapheresis or cyclophosphamide for refractory cases. The outcome depends on factors such as age and form of onset, being more favorable in young patients with an acute course. Future research is focused on identifying prognostic biomarkers and developing targeted therapies.


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