Demographics:
16 years old, Male
Indication:
Lower extremity weakness
Findings
- Abnormal T2/STIR signal hyperintensity in the spinal cord spanning C5-C7, predominantly involving the anterior horn cells and to a lesser extent the adjacent white matter
- No associated enhancement or cord expansion
- Normal marrow signal
- Normal alignment
Diagnosis
Transverse myelitis
Sample Report
Abnormal T2/STIR signal hyperintensity in the spinal cord spanning C5-C7, predominantly involving the anterior horn cells and to a lesser extent the adjacent white matter, without associated enhancement or cord expansion. This appearance is most concerning for transverse myelitis related to an inflammatory/demyelinating process (including ADEM) or infectious myelitis (particularly enterovirus). Recommend CSF analysis for further evaluation. Although neoplasm is considered unlikely given lack of cord expansion and enhancement, recommend followup imaging after treatment to monitor for evolution of findings.
Discussion