How is Transverse Myelitis Connected to Multiple Sclerosis?

Transverse Myelitis is a pathological condition caused by inflammation of the spinal cord. The spinal cord is an extremely important component of the central nervous system which functions by sending nerve impulses to and from the brain to other parts of the body.⁽¹⁾

The inflammation of the spinal cord caused due Transverse Myelitis damages the nerves and myelin which insulates and protects the nerves resulting in disruption in communication between the brain and other parts of the body causing a host of symptoms including weakness, pain, altered sensation, numbness and tingling in the lower extremities, bowel and bladder dysfunction and ambulation difficulties.

Infection and autoimmune dysfunctions are the major causes for the development of Transverse Myelitis. There is actually no cure from Transverse Myelitis and the treatment is mainly symptomatic. A lot of studies have commented on the similarities between Transverse Myelitis and Multiple Sclerosis. This article gives a brief insight as to the connection between Transverse Myelitis and Multiple Sclerosis.

Transverse Myelitis normally affects an individual once but there have been instances of relapses. Studies have suggested that Transverse Myelitis is an early sign of a potentially serious neurological disorder called multiple sclerosis.

Multiple Sclerosis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system affecting the brain, eyes, and the extremities. The severity of symptoms varies from individual to individual.⁽²⁾ The connection between Multiple Sclerosis and Transverse Myelitis has been explained based on symptoms and causes.

There are a lot of symptoms common between multiple sclerosis and Transverse Myelitis. The most common symptom is the sensation of numbness and tingling in the arms and legs. Altered sensation is also a common factor between MS and Transverse Myelitis. Numbness and weakness in the extremities is yet another symptom that is common between MS and Transverse Myelitis.

Although the exact cause of Transverse Myelitis is not completely understood but studies have concluded that it may be an autoimmune disorder. This is yet another similarity between MS and Transverse Myelitis as MS is a condition which also comes under autoimmune disorder and is triggered due to an autoimmune response.

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Also Read:

• Massage Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Benefits- Pain, Stress Reduction
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Disseminated Sclerosis: Types, Risk Factors, Symptoms, Treatment
• What Causes Transverse Myelitis and How is it Treated?
• Treating Multiple Sclerosis With Aggressive Stem Cell Transplant
• Transverse Myelitis Recovery: How Long Does It Take To Recover?
• Can Transverse Myelitis Be Cured?