transverse myelitis

noun

: a rare neurological condition of sudden onset that is marked especially by pain, muscle weakness or paralysis, abnormal sensations (such as tingling in the digits), and loss of bladder or bowel control and is caused by inflammation of the spinal cord and damage of myelin

Note: Transverse myelitis is often preceded by viral or bacterial infections or inflammatory conditions (such as multiple sclerosis or lupus).

The virus brought on transverse myelitis, an inflammation of the spinal cord that cost him the use of his legs.

—Michael Farber

Most people with transverse myelitis recover at least partially. Those with severe attacks sometimes are left with major disabilities.

—Mayo Clinic

—abbreviation TM

Word History

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above