Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: transverse myletis

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Neurology - General

Re: transverse myletis

Re: transverse myletis

Posted by CCF Neuro MD on September 23, 1997 at 00:07:00:

In Reply to: transverse myletis posted by Lorrie on September 20, 1997 at 23:43:44:

: I have a daughter that had an undiagnosed neurological problem last year.
The most obvious symptom was a lesion/mass in the cerebellum which resolved
itself over a 6 month period. MS was always an option that had been left on
the table, although there was evidence of 'spots' in both white and gray matter.
The possibility of demylenating diseases was also left on the table
but her LP showed no traces. I always wondered about transverse myletis but never
got a clear understanding of what it was, how it presents itself, and whether
or not the drs. thought it may have been a possibility. Although the diagnosis that
most of the doctors leaned towards at the end was some mild form of viral encephalitis,
we did treat her for Lyme's disease (negative results) just in case. She had 2 MRIs 9 months
apart that were clean so we are hopeful that this ordeal is over for good. I would greatly
appreciate a quick education on how this 'condition' presents itself and how
it is diagnosed. Thanks.

This is a great forum/service that your facility provides to the internet community. Thanks
for providing it.


Hello, Lorrie,
First of all, thank you for your appreciation. In your daughter’s case, transverse myelitis would not be a relevent diagnosis. By definition, transverse myelitis is an acutely evolving inflammatory demyelinative lesion of the spinal cord, which in many cases is an expression of multiple sclerosis (MS). The name is somewhat imprecise because “transverse” implies all lesions in the cord is in one plane. In reality, lesions usually are asymmetrical and incomplete. Since it usually is related with MS, the other clincal features of MS often can be identified sooner or later. Initially the spinal cord involvement gives sensory level of trunk, sphincteric dysfunction (such as urinary incontinence), and motor deficits (leg weakness). LP can be normal at first, but later shows a high protein and evidence of demyelination with special studies. (MS is a demyelinating process.)
Your daughter’s illness seemed to be more consistent with a presentation of encephalitis (cerebritis). It may have been cured as you implied and hoped. However, depending on her clincal presentation, we should fellow her closely with periodic imagings to secure the recovery. If you wish, we can offer her such evaluation and follow up. Please call toll free at (800) 223-2273 ext. 45559 if you plan to come. Good luck.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your primary physician for the treatment and diagnostic options of your specific condition.
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