A case of acute transverse myelitis following chickenpox

Focal delayed post-chickenpox myelitis: Case report. A review and update

“…2,5 We based our diagnosis on the recent history of infection by VZV and the compatible clinical features and serology and MRI findings.…”

“…Physical therapy following the acute episode can diminish neurologic deficits in these patients. 2 Thus, early initiation of these therapies is important in reducing sequelae. Recovery usually starts after 10 weeks, and can take as long as 12---24 months.…”

“…2 It is typically present in patients aged 0---2 and 5---7 years with symmetric pain, progressive weakness, sensory disturbances, and bowel or bladder dysfunction. 2,3 It is caused by an altered immune response and viral infection of the spinal cord that extends to the nerve fibres, leading to hypoxaemia, ischaemia, inflammation, and demyelinisation. 2 The differential diagnosis must rule out a compressive myelopathy by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).…”

“…2,3 It is caused by an altered immune response and viral infection of the spinal cord that extends to the nerve fibres, leading to hypoxaemia, ischaemia, inflammation, and demyelinisation. 2 The differential diagnosis must rule out a compressive myelopathy by means of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). After ruling out a compressive aetiology, a lumbar puncture is indicated to assess for noninflammatory causes in the absence of leukocytosis.…”

“…After ruling out a compressive aetiology, a lumbar puncture is indicated to assess for noninflammatory causes in the absence of leukocytosis. 2 A full recovery occurs in one-third of the patients, usually spontaneously, and factors for a poor prognosis include older age, acute onset, a protracted course, presence of supraspinal symptoms, severe denervation, normal cerebrospinal fluid, and delayed onset of recovery. 3 This paper presents a singular case of delayed-onset postchickenpox TM, as well as an update on the few existing publications on the subject.…”