Description A neurological diso...
Description
A neurological disorder caused by severe inflammation of the spinal cord. The condition involves an entire cross section of the spinal cord preventing the brain from communicating with the body below the level of the inflammation. Weakness and numbness occur below the involved area of the spinal cord. The disorder occurs in both adults and children, and typically begins with a rapid development of symptoms over the course of several hours to weeks. The condition can follow a viral infection or it may be related to an autoimmune disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include lower back pain, weakness in the legs or both the arms and legs, decreased sensation below the level of inflammation, muscle spasms, bowel and/or bladder dysfunction.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify the location of the spinal cord inflammation (usually an MRI) and isolate the cause of the disorder will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: NMO-IgG blood test, lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
Specialists:
Neurology, Pediatric Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to identify the location of the spinal cord inflammation (usually an MRI) and isolate the cause of the disorder will be done.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: NMO-IgG blood test, lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
Specialists:
Neurology, Pediatric Neurology
Treatment
Treatment includes: intravenous corticosteroids, plasma exchange therapy, pain medications, physical therapy and/or occupational therapy. If the symptoms are severe mechanical ventilation to support respirations may be necessary.