Recurrent transverse myelitis, myasthenia gravis, and autoantibodies

Ann Neurol. 1992 Sep;32(3):407-9. doi: 10.1002/ana.410320319.

Abstract

A 45-year-old man with a longstanding diagnosis of myasthenia gravis presented with four episodes of transverse myelitis in 5 years. Each episode improved after treatment with steroids. Laboratory studies revealed no evidence of multiple sclerosis or a structural spinal lesion. He had antinuclear and anti-DNA antibodies and the HLA-A1, B8, DR3 haplotype known to be associated with certain autoimmune diseases. We propose an autoimmune cause for the recurrent episodes of myelitis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Antinuclear / immunology*
  • Autoimmune Diseases* / immunology
  • HLA Antigens / analysis
  • Haplotypes
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myasthenia Gravis / complications*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / immunology
  • Myelitis, Transverse / etiology*
  • Myelitis, Transverse / immunology
  • Recurrence

Substances

  • Antibodies, Antinuclear
  • HLA Antigens