Inflammation of the spinal cord that can cause weakness, numbness, pain, and bladder or bowel dysfunction. It may result from viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or other inflammatory conditions affecting the central nervous system.
From Greek 'myelos' meaning 'marrow' (referring to the spinal cord) and '-itis' meaning 'inflammation.' The term emerged in neurology during the 19th century as the distinction between brain and spinal cord pathology became clearer.
Transverse myelitis can strike suddenly, causing complete paralysis below the level of spinal cord inflammation within hours or days. Unlike spinal cord injury from trauma, the cord isn't physically damaged - it's just temporarily 'offline' due to inflammation, offering hope for recovery.
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