My nephew, Bill Kennedy, was suspected of having SLE (Systemic Lupus
Erythematosus) when he was diagnosed with TM. That was because he had a
high ANA (Antinuclear Antibodies) titer. However, he had no other symptoms
and SLE was ruled out. In severe cases of lupus the CNS (Central Nervous
Ststem) can be damaged causing transverse myelitis. A positive ANA titer
is usually indicative of lupus. I have read some of the same literature
mentioned and was very worried. One must remember each case is different
and we do not have the entire case study to read to know of any other
mitigating factors. Personally I believe that ANA titer is some sort of
clue or key to why the TM occurred. What it is though I don't know. The
Merck Manual has information on lupus and its connection to TM.
Speaking of Bill, he is staying with his dad right now, and doing pretty
much the same. He is still not walking on his own. He wants me to let him
know of any news addressed to him, so I follow all these posts.
Aunt Lori