Post COVID-19 transverse myelitis; a case report with review of literature

Introduction: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV2). Recently, various complications have been reported. The aim of the current study is to report a rare case of transverse myelitis after recovering from COVID-19. Case report: A 34-year-old lady, presented with inability to walk for one day duration due to the lower limb weakness. After two weeks from the recovery of COVID-19; she developed progressive intermittent leg pain, paresthesia and weakness on both sides. Brain and cervical MRI showed evidence of a short segment inflammatory enhancing lesion at upper cervical region (at C1 level). The patient was treated conservatively. Discussion: Transverse myelitis has many different causes, it occurs as an autoimmune phenomenon postinfection and vaccination, or it may result from direct infection or acquired demyelinating disease like multiple sclerosis. Conclusion: Although it is a sporadic finding, SARS-CoV-2 can cause transverse myelitis. The condition responds to medical therapy.

Automated summary

This study reported a rare case of transverse myelitis after recovering from COVID-19, with the patient developing worsening symptoms two weeks post-recovery. Transverse myelitis can occur post-infection, post-vaccination, or as a result of direct infection or demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.