Transverse Myelitis Associated with Anti-Ro (SSA) Autoantibodies: A Record of Two Cases

Abstract

Transverse myelitis (TM) is an inflammatory process involving a restricted area of the spinal cord. The usual dramatic presentation makes TM a medical emergency. Early detection and aggressive therapy are required in order to improve the prognosis. The association of this unique clinical phenotype and autoantibody provides circumstantial evidence that an autoimmune aetiology might be involved. We describe two cases of TM associated with anti-Ro (SSA) autoantibodies without connective tissue disease manifestations. The two patients were treated successfully with IV steroids and cyclophosphamide.