Transverse myelitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the spinal cord. It is caused by either infection or an autoimmune reaction. The exact cause of transverse myelitis cannot always be determined.
Infection as a Cause
Transverse myelitis can be caused by a variety of viral and bacterial infections. Viral infections that can lead to transverse myelitis include varicella-zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and cytomegalovirus (CMV). Bacterial infections that can lead to transverse myelitis include Lyme disease, syphilis, and leptospirosis.
Autoimmune Reaction as a Cause
Sometimes, transverse myelitis is caused by an autoimmune reaction. An autoimmune reaction occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. This can lead to inflammation in the spinal cord and cause transverse myelitis. Autoimmune conditions that can cause transverse myelitis include multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Unknown Causes
In some cases, the cause of transverse myelitis remains unknown. This is known as idiopathic transverse myelitis. It is thought that in many cases, the cause may be a viral or bacterial infection that has cleared from the body before the condition is diagnosed.