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Neurology8 papers

Acute transverse myelitis

Last edited: 4/10/2026

Overview

Acute transverse myelitis (ATM) is a focal inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord that causes motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction 1. A uniform diagnostic approach is proposed to improve classification, reduce confusion, and facilitate multicenter clinical trials 1.

Diagnosis

  • ATM is characterized by motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction attributable to spinal cord inflammation 1.
  • A diagnostic algorithm is suggested to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis, distinguishing idiopathic ATM from that secondary to an underlying disease 1.
  • Rapid diagnosis is crucial to identify and treat compressive lesions 1.

    • Management

  • Treatment depends on a timely and accurate diagnosis 1.
  • Identification of specific etiologies may guide medical treatment 1.
  • No clearly established medical treatment currently exists for idiopathic ATM 1.

    • Key Recommendations

  • Establish uniform diagnostic criteria and nosology for ATM to ensure a common language of classification and reduce diagnostic confusion 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
  • Implement a diagnostic algorithm for individuals presenting with signs and symptoms of ATM to ensure rapid and precise diagnosis 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
  • Distinguish between idiopathic ATM and ATM secondary to a known underlying disease, as identification of etiologies may suggest specific medical treatments 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)

    • References

    1 . Proposed diagnostic criteria and nosology of acute transverse myelitis. Neurology 2002. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Proposed diagnostic criteria and nosology of acute transverse myelitis. Neurology (2002)
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