> I ahve had three exaserbations if you count the first. Since this last
one,
> one of the Drs feels certain they should change the dx based solely on the
> exaserbations seperated by time. Please tell me; isn't ADEM or TM know to
> have reoccurances?
I copied the following from the latest Transverse Myelitis Association
newsletter (accessible at http://www.myelitis.org/newsletters). This was
written by a Dr. Joanne Lynn, who I believe is on the TMA board. Hope it
helps answer some questions. :)
Barbara H.
7. Should a person who has been diagnosed with TM who experiences
recurring symptoms or an intensification of existing symptoms be tested
for MS?
Recurrent idiopathic transverse myelitis has been reported (Tippett
1991) and does not necessarily mean that there is underlying MS.
However, recurrent exacerbations of myelopathy or spinal cord
dysfunction should prompt reevaluation. Myelitis due to an underlying
autoimmune disease is more likely to recur than idiopathic transverse
myelitis. This would include systemic lupus erythematosis, Sjogren's
syndrome, or multiple sclerosis. Relentlessly progressive spinal cord
dysfunction should prompt consideration of a spinal cord mass lesion
such as tumor or abscess, MS, or a paraneoplastic disorder (immune
attacks on the spinal cord related to an underlying cancer).
Other neurologic symptoms occurring after the initial spinal cord attack
that might suggest multiple sclerosis or another underlying inflammatory
central nervous system disease would include visual loss, double vision,
trouble with speech or swallowing, vertigo or seizures.
In most follow-up studies of people who present with transverse
myelitis, the majority do not develop MS. However, if there are abnormal
lesions in the white matter of the brain, the risk of subsequently
developing MS is increased. Those with myelitis who have total paralysis
of both legs (complete TM) are more unlikely to develop MS than those
who had incomplete TM (weakness or sensory loss without complete
paralysis).