How is transverse myelitis diagnosed?
Investigations are carried out urgently and usually involve an MRI scan. When pressure on the spinal cord has been ruled out, a lumbar puncture will normally be carried out (see below). A blood sample will be taken and tested to look for evidence of virus infection and to rule out other diseases. An MRI scan of the brain may also be carried out to rule out more widespread inflammation. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan MRI is the method of choice (when available) for ruling out conditions that put pressure on the spinal cord e.g. tumours, or spinal cord damage caused by abnormal collections of blood vessels (called arteriovenous malformations). Images are produced using high-powered magnetic fields, microwave radiation and computers. The scan is painless and the magnetic fields do not have harmful effects, however the machine is rather noisy and some people find the process claustrophobic. In many cases, the areas of localised inflammation in the spinal cord can be seen on the scan
