Can transverse myelitis cured?

No effective cure currently exists for transverse myelitis, although many people recover from it. Treatments focus on relieving the inflammation that causes the symptoms. Some people might need to be hospitalized at first if the symptoms are severe enough.

How do I get rid of myelitis?

Treatment

1. Intravenous steroids. You’ll probably receive steroids through a vein in your arm over the course of several days.
2. Plasma exchange therapy.
3. Antiviral medication.
4. Pain medication.
5. Medications to treat other complications.
6. Medications to prevent recurrent attacks of transverse myelitis.

Can you walk with transverse myelitis?

About a third of people with transverse myelitis get better and don’t have much permanent damage. They can walk normally and have only small lingering issues. Another third have problems walking. They also may have muscle spasms, a less sensitive sense of touch, or trouble controlling their bladder.

When does transverse myelitis become MS?

Those between the ages of 10 and 19 and between 30 and 39 face the highest risks of transverse myelitis, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. MS usually develops in people between the ages of 20 and 40.

Is transverse myelitis lifelong?

It can take up to 2 years. Most people will only have a single episode of transverse myelitis. But a few people may have a recurrence. Some people who get transverse myelitis are left with permanent physical disabilities, such as muscle stiffness, loss of bowel or bladder function, muscle weakness, or even paralysis.

What is the difference between transverse myelitis and multiple sclerosis?

In transverse myelitis there is usually a single lesion in the spinal cord and none in the brain, whereas in multiple sclerosis (MS) there are multiple attacks of inflammation and lesions throughout the brain and spinal cord.

What are the odds of getting transverse myelitis?

TM has a conservatively estimated incidence of between 1 and 8 new cases per million per year, or approximately 1400 new cases each year. Although this disease affects people of all ages, with a range of six months to 88 years, there are bimodal peaks between the ages of 10 to 19 years and 30 to 39 years.

Is transverse myelitis a progressive disease?

People with symptoms of transverse myelitis may: Develop a rapidly progressive disorder with back pain, numbness, and tingling in the legs, trunk, and sometimes arms. Have weakness in the legs and sometimes in the arms. The weakness may become severe at times, leading to complete paralysis.

Can you be misdiagnosed with transverse myelitis?

Misdiagnosis of Transverse Myelitis Usually recovery begins within the first three months following the onset of the disorder and can take up to two years.

What happens if transverse myelitis is left untreated?

If left untreated, the disorder may continue to progress over time, so treatment should be aggressive, and should include high dose prednisone and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan). If anti-phospholipid antibodies are present, anticoagulants (blood thinning medications) may also help.

What type of doctor treats transverse myelitis?

Treatment for Transverse Myelitis Neurologists. Advanced practice providers (physician assistants and nurse practitioners) Neuro-ophthalmologists. Neuropsychologists and psychiatrists.

What is the difference between multiple sclerosis and transverse myelitis?