Transverse myelitis and optic neuritis in systemic lupus erythematosus: a case report with magnetic resonance imaging findings

Arthritis Rheum. 1987 Aug;30(8):947-50. doi: 10.1002/art.1780300818.

Abstract

We describe a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus who developed transverse myelitis and optic neuritis. Magnetic resonance imaging showed the presence of an abnormal signal in a normal-sized spinal cord which corresponded to the patient's neurologic deficit. No abnormality was recognized in either optic nerve. Magnetic resonance may prove to be a useful imaging modality for the diagnosis of a transverse myelopathy in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Blindness / etiology
  • Cyclophosphamide / therapeutic use
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / complications*
  • Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy*
  • Methylprednisolone / therapeutic use
  • Myelitis / etiology*
  • Myelitis, Transverse / drug therapy
  • Myelitis, Transverse / etiology*
  • Myelitis, Transverse / pathology
  • Optic Neuritis / etiology*
  • Optic Neuritis / pathology
  • Spinal Cord / pathology

Substances

  • Cyclophosphamide
  • Methylprednisolone