Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis, a disabling disorder with a good prognosis: a case series from Nepal

Abstract

Introduction: Longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) is a rare spinal cord disorder with variable etiologies and presentations. It can present solely or as an association with other neurological disorders.

Methodology: It was a series of cases of LETM in a tertiary care hospital.

Clinical presentation and outcomes: The initial three cases presented with bilateral lower extremity weakness and were diagnosed as transverse myelitis while, the fourth case, already diagnosed as LETM presented with seizure followed by loss of consciousness. All four cases had a good prognosis to date with continued physiotherapy.

Conclusion: The early diagnosis of the disease helps to guide the optimal management and decide the potential need for physiotherapy.

Keywords: longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis; neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder; weakness.