Transverse myelitis is a neurological condition characterized by inflammation of the spinal cord. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the spinal cord, damaging the nerve fibers and causing various neurological symptoms.
The inflammation in transverse myelitis disrupts the normal functioning of the spinal cord, affecting the transmission of nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body.
The exact cause of transverse myelitis is often unknown, but it is thought to result from an autoimmune response, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissue of the spinal cord. It can be associated with viral or bacterial infections, vaccination, or certain autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis.
What Symptoms are Caused by Transverse Myelitis?
Transverse myelitis can cause a variety of symptoms that typically appear suddenly and progress rapidly over a few hours to a few weeks. The specific symptoms experienced may vary from person to person, but commonly observed symptoms include:
Sensory disturbances: Patients may experience abnormal sensations in the affected areas of the body, such as numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation. Some individuals may have heightened sensitivity to touch, while others may experience decreased sensation or a loss of sensation.
Motor problems: Weakness or paralysis may occur in the muscles controlled by the affected spinal cord segment. This can lead to difficulty walking, performing fine motor tasks, or maintaining balance and coordination. Some individuals may experience muscle spasms or involuntary muscle contractions.
Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Transverse myelitis can disrupt the normal control of bladder and bowel function. This can manifest as urinary urgency, frequency, incontinence (inability to control urination), or retention (inability to empty the bladder fully). Bowel movements may also be affected, leading to constipation or fecal incontinence.
Pain: Many individuals with transverse myelitis experience severe, localized back pain at the level of the inflammation. The pain may be sharp, stabbing, burning, or aching in nature. It can radiate to the arms, legs, or other parts of the body.
Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom experienced by individuals with transverse myelitis. It can be debilitating and may significantly impact daily activities.
Other symptoms: Depending on the extent and location of the inflammation, additional symptoms can arise. These may include changes in temperature sensation, altered sexual function, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and abnormalities in reflexes or muscle tone.
It’s important to note that not all individuals will experience every symptom, and the severity and duration of symptoms can vary. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial if you suspect transverse myelitis, as early intervention and treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent further damage.
How is Transverse Myelitis Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of transverse myelitis typically involves several diagnostic steps. Firstly, the doctor will conduct a medical history review and inquire about the symptoms, their onset, and progression. A comprehensive physical examination will be performed to evaluate neurological function, including sensory, motor, and reflex responses.
To visualize the spinal cord and confirm the diagnosis, a key diagnostic test is an MRI scan, which can detect inflammation, lesions, or structural abnormalities in the spinal cord. In some cases, a lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, may be performed to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for analysis, which helps identify markers of inflammation, infection, or underlying causes.
Blood tests may also be conducted to assess autoimmune markers, infectious agents, or other potential contributors to transverse myelitis. Additional tests, such as electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, can assess nerve function and muscle activity while ruling out similar conditions.
Evoked potentials, which measure the electrical responses of the brain and spinal cord to sensory stimuli, are used to evaluate nerve signal conduction and detect abnormalities along the spinal cord.
These diagnostic steps are vital for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of transverse myelitis.
How is Transverse Myelitis Treated?
The treatment of transverse myelitis aims to manage symptoms, address the underlying cause (if known), and promote functional recovery. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the individual’s symptoms, severity of the condition, and the underlying cause. Here are some common treatment options:
High-dose intravenous corticosteroids: Corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone, are often prescribed as the initial treatment for transverse myelitis. They help reduce inflammation in the spinal cord and may help shorten the duration of symptoms. These medications are usually administered through a vein (intravenously) over a few days.
Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis): Plasma exchange involves removing a portion of the patient’s blood, separating the liquid portion (plasma), and replacing it with donor plasma or a substitute. This procedure aims to remove harmful antibodies or immune system components that may be contributing to the inflammation.
Immune system modulating therapies: In cases where transverse myelitis is associated with an autoimmune condition, additional medications may be prescribed to modify or suppress the immune system’s response. These can include immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil, or immune system modulators like intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG).
Symptomatic treatment: Various medications and therapies can be employed to manage specific symptoms. For example, medications may be prescribed to alleviate pain, muscle spasms, or urinary/bowel dysfunction. Physical and occupational therapy can help improve strength, mobility, and functional abilities. Assistive devices or adaptive equipment may also be recommended to aid in daily activities.
Treatment of underlying cause: If a specific cause or trigger is identified, such as an infection or autoimmune disorder, treating that underlying condition becomes an important part of the overall management.
Supportive care: Transverse myelitis can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Supportive care, including psychological support, counseling, and rehabilitation services, can be beneficial in managing the emotional and physical challenges associated with the condition.
It is important to work closely with a healthcare professional experienced in treating neurological disorders to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for transverse myelitis. They can assess individual circumstances and tailor the treatment approach accordingly. Early intervention and prompt treatment can help manage symptoms, minimize complications, and optimize long-term outcomes.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Transverse Myelitis
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown promise in the treatment of various neurological conditions, including transverse myelitis. MSCs are multipotent stem cells that can differentiate into different cell types and possess immunomodulatory and regenerative properties. Here’s an overview of the use of MSCs in transverse myelitis:
MSCs have the potential in reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and improving functional recovery in transverse myelitis.
MSCs have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can modulate the immune response and suppress excessive inflammation. This can help reduce the damage caused by immune system activity in transverse myelitis.
MSCs release anti-inflammatory molecules that can reduce inflammation and protect the spinal cord from further damage. This can potentially alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
MSCs have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, including neuronal cells and supporting cells. When introduced into the injured spinal cord, they can potentially aid in tissue repair and regeneration.
Some clinical trials have explored the safety and efficacy of MSCs in transverse myelitis and other spinal cord disorders. These trials have shown promising results in terms of safety and potential therapeutic benefits, including improved neurological function and quality of life.
If you or someone you know is interested in exploring MSC therapy for transverse myelitis, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who specializes in stem cell therapy or neurological disorders. They can provide guidance, discuss the potential benefits and risks, and help determine the suitability of MSC therapy on an individual basis.
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) isolated from a wide variety of tissues and organs have demonstrated immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties that contribute to a host of regenerative and immunomodulatory activities, including tissue homeostasis and tissue repair. The most frequently studied and reported sources of MSCs are those collected from bone marrow and adipose tissue.
In this review, Krawczenkjo and Klimczak focus on MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs) and their secretome in regeneration processes.
Adipose tissue is the most commonly used source of MSCs, primarily because it is easily accessible and is often a byproduct of cosmetic and medical procedures. Like most MSCs, AT-MSCs are able to differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts; they are also able to differentiate into neural cells, skeletal myocytes, cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, hepatocytes, endocrine cells, and endothelial cells.
In addition, AT-MSCs secrete a broad spectrum of biologically active factors that serve as essential components involved in the therapeutic effects of MSCs, including the ability to stimulate cell proliferation, new blood vessel formation, and immunomodulatory properties; these factors include cytokines, lipid mediators, hormones, exosomes, microvesicles, and miRNA.
Preclinical and clinical studies on AT-MSCs in tissue regeneration were demonstrated to contribute to wound healing, muscle damage, nerve regeneration, bone regeneration, and lung tissue regeneration.
Evaluating these studies, Krawczenko and Aleksandra Klimczak conclude that AT-MSCs and their secretome are promising and powerful therapeutic tools in regenerative medicine, primarily due to their unique properties in supporting angiogenesis.
The results obtained by the preclinical and clinical studies evaluated for this review suggest that the ability of AT-MSCs and their derivatives, including EVs and CM, to deliver a wide range of bioactive molecules could be considered as factors supporting enhanced tissue repair and regeneration.
Lyme’s disease, also known as Lyme’s borreliosis, is a tick-borne infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi or, less commonly, Borrelia mayonii. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks (Ixodes scapularis or Ixodes pacificus) in North America and Ixodes ricinus in Europe.
The signs and symptoms of Lyme’s disease can vary widely, and they often resemble symptoms of other illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. The most common early sign is a circular rash known as erythema migrans (EM), which appears at the site of the tick bite after a few days or up to a month. This rash may expand over time and can be accompanied by flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Preventing Lyme’s disease involves taking precautions to avoid tick bites. This includes wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents, checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, and removing ticks promptly and properly. It’s important to be aware of the risk of Lyme’s disease, particularly in areas where infected ticks are prevalent, and to seek medical attention if symptoms suggestive of Lyme’s disease develop after a tick bite.
Who Do You See if You Have Lyme’s Disease Symptoms?
Diagnosing Lyme’s disease involves considering a combination of factors, including symptoms, history of tick exposure, and laboratory tests. Blood tests can be performed to detect antibodies against the bacteria, but they may not always be reliable in the early stages of infection.
If you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of Lyme disease, it is recommended to seek medical attention from a healthcare professional. There are several healthcare providers who can evaluate and diagnose Lyme disease, including:
Primary care physician (PCP): Your first point of contact is typically your primary care physician, such as a family doctor, internist, or general practitioner. They can assess your symptoms, take a medical history, and conduct a physical examination. Based on their evaluation, they may order tests or refer you to a specialist if needed.
Infectious disease specialist: These doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating infectious diseases, including Lyme disease. They have in-depth knowledge and experience in managing various infectious conditions and may provide expertise in diagnosing and managing Lyme disease.
Rheumatologist: Rheumatologists are specialists who diagnose and treat diseases that affect the joints, muscles, and connective tissues. Since Lyme disease can sometimes present with joint pain and inflammation, a rheumatologist may be involved in the evaluation and management of Lyme disease, particularly in cases where joint symptoms are prominent.
Neurologist: If Lyme disease affects the nervous system, such as causing facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), meningitis, or neuropathy, a neurologist may be consulted for evaluation and management.
Dermatologist: In the early stages of Lyme disease, when the characteristic erythema migrans rash appears, a dermatologist may be involved in the evaluation and diagnosis.
It’s important to note that Lyme disease can present with a wide range of symptoms, and diagnosis can sometimes be challenging due to the similarity of symptoms to other conditions. Therefore, it may be helpful to consult healthcare providers who have experience in diagnosing and managing Lyme disease or who are familiar with its prevalence in your geographic area.
Remember to provide your healthcare provider with a detailed medical history, including any recent exposure to ticks or outdoor activities in areas known for Lyme disease, as this information can be crucial in guiding the diagnostic process.
What Treatments Can Help?
The treatment of Lyme disease typically involves the use of antibiotics to eliminate the infection. The specific antibiotic and treatment duration depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the severity of symptoms, and the presence of any complications.
If left untreated, Lyme’s disease can progress to more severe symptoms that may affect multiple systems in the body, including the nervous system, joints, heart, and even other organs. These symptoms can include severe headaches, neck stiffness, additional rashes, facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), joint pain and swelling, heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, and cognitive difficulties.
Here are the commonly used treatment approaches for Lyme disease:
Early-stage Lyme disease: If Lyme disease is diagnosed in its early stages, oral antibiotics are generally prescribed. The most commonly used antibiotics include doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime. Treatment duration is usually 10 to 21 days, depending on the antibiotic prescribed and the severity of symptoms. Early treatment is crucial to prevent the progression of the disease and potential complications.
Lyme disease with neurological involvement: If Lyme disease affects the central nervous system, such as causing meningitis or facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be recommended to ensure higher antibiotic levels reach the affected area. Ceftriaxone is a commonly used IV antibiotic for this purpose. Treatment duration may vary but typically lasts for 14 to 28 days.
Persistent or late-stage Lyme disease: Some individuals may experience persistent or recurrent symptoms despite initial antibiotic treatment. In such cases, a more extended course of antibiotics may be considered. The choice of antibiotics and treatment duration is determined on an individual basis, and it may involve a combination of oral and IV antibiotics.
It’s important to note that self-treatment with antibiotics or prolonged antibiotic use without proper medical supervision is not recommended. The decision to use antibiotics and the selection of the appropriate regimen should be made by a qualified healthcare professional based on a thorough evaluation of your condition.
Regenerative Medicine for Lyme’s Disease
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, uses mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) for the potential in managing Lyme’s disease-related complications.
Mesenchymal stem cells are a type of adult stem cells found in various tissues, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord tissue. They have the ability to differentiate into different cell types and possess immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can regulate the immune system’s response.
In the context of Lyme’s disease, researchers have investigated the potential of MSCs in addressing the inflammatory response and tissue damage associated with the disease. It is thought that MSCs may help regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation, which could potentially alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Studies have shown promising results, suggesting that MSCs can reduce inflammation, protect tissues from damage, and improve outcomes. This alternative option is available for those interested in exploring treatment options to help them make informed decisions about what is best to manage their symptoms. If you want to learn more, contact us at Stemedix today!
Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the leading cause of death globally, accounting for nearly 18 million deaths each year with heart attack and stroke accounting for 80% of deaths.
Recently, stem-cell-based therapy has demonstrated the potential to regenerate damaged myocardium and to treat a wide range of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Specifically, the ability of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to differentiate into cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells has created a potentially new and promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of CVDs.
Huang et al. summarize the recent advances in MSC therapy, including the role of exosomes in future treatments of CVDs.
Recent studies have demonstrated that MSCs were able to secret cholesterol-rich, phospholipid exomes that were enriched with microRNAs (miRNAs). These exomes are nano-sized particles originating from multivesicular endosomal ranging in size from 30 – 100 nm and contain cytokines, proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and miRNAs. These exosomes are suggested as central mediators of intercellular communication and transfer proteins, mRNAs and miRNAs to adjacent cells.
The miRNAs found in exosomes play an essential role in various physiological and pathological processes by regulating gene expression at the post-transcription level. When applied in the cardiovascular system, miRNAs are internalized into CMCs and ECs and result in cardiomyocyte protection and angiogenesis promotion that has demonstrated beneficial and anti-inflammatory effects including cardiac regeneration, neovascularization, and anti-vascular remodeling; these observed benefits include improved cardiac function after a myocardial infarction (MI), reduced inflammation related to pulmonary hypertension, and increased tissue healing following an ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Huang et al. conclude that the studies evaluated in this review provide evidence that MSC-derived exosomes play an essential role in MSC-based therapy of CVDs including MI, reperfusion injury, and PH. Considering these conclusions, the authors call for additional studies to determine the detailed mechanisms and underlying benefits to determine their exact role.
Brain injuries resulting from car accidents can vary in severity, ranging from mild concussions to more severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). The symptoms experienced can also vary depending on the specific nature and extent of the injury. Here are some common symptoms associated with brain injury from a car accident:
Loss of consciousness: The person may experience a temporary loss of consciousness, ranging from a few seconds to several minutes. However, it’s important to note that loss of consciousness doesn’t always occur in every brain injury case.
Headache: Persistent or recurring headaches are a common symptom following a brain injury. The severity and frequency of the headaches can vary.
Confusion and disorientation: After a car accident, individuals may feel confused, disoriented, or have difficulty remembering events before or after the accident. They may have problems with concentration and may struggle to follow conversations or instructions.
Memory problems: Short-term or long-term memory loss can occur after a brain injury. This may involve difficulty remembering recent events, learning new information, or recalling past memories.
Dizziness and balance issues: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or having problems with balance and coordination are common symptoms. This may make it difficult to walk or perform everyday activities.
Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be a result of the injury itself or associated with dizziness and imbalance.
Sensory changes: Changes in sensory perception can occur, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), sensitivity to light or sound, or a bitter taste in the mouth.
Mood swings and emotional changes: Brain injuries can lead to emotional and behavioral changes, including irritability, depression, anxiety, mood swings, and a decreased tolerance for stress. These changes can affect personal relationships and overall well-being.
Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, excessive sleepiness, or changes in sleep patterns are common after a brain injury.
Sensation and coordination problems: Some individuals may experience numbness or tingling in the extremities, difficulties with coordination, or weakness in the muscles.
It’s important to remember that these symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the brain injury and the individual. If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident and is experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
What Treatments Help for Brain Injury Recovery?
The treatment and management of a brain injury depends on its severity and the specific symptoms and complications experienced. Recovery from a brain injury can be a complex and individualized process.
In the acute phase following a brain injury, medical professionals focus on stabilizing the individual and preventing further damage. This may involve surgery to address bleeding or swelling in the brain.
Rehabilitation therapies are utilized to address specific impairments and promote recovery. These may include:
Physical therapy: To improve mobility, strength, balance, and coordination.
Occupational therapy: To regain skills necessary for daily activities and improve cognitive function.
Speech and language therapy: To address communication difficulties, speech impairments, and swallowing problems.
Cognitive rehabilitation: To enhance cognitive abilities such as memory, attention, problem-solving, and organization skills.
Vision therapy: To address visual disturbances or impairments.
Medications may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with brain injuries, such as pain, seizures, muscle spasms, depression, anxiety, or sleep disorders.
Emotional and psychological support is essential for individuals recovering from brain injuries. Counseling or therapy sessions can help individuals and their families cope with the emotional and behavioral changes that may occur.
Depending on the specific impairments, assistive devices such as mobility aids, communication devices, or memory aids may be recommended. Modifications to the home or workplace environment may also be necessary to support the individual’s recovery and independence.
Support from family, friends, and support groups can play a crucial role in the recovery process. Educational programs can help individuals and their families understand the nature of brain injuries, manage expectations, and learn strategies for coping and maximizing recovery.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle can support brain injury recovery. This may include getting sufficient rest, eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise (as appropriate), and avoiding substances that could interfere with recovery, such as alcohol or certain medications.
It’s important to note that every brain injury is unique, and treatment plans should be tailored to the individual’s specific needs. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, neurologists, therapists, and psychologists, will work together to create a comprehensive treatment plan and monitor progress throughout the recovery journey.
Can Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy Help in Brain Injury From Car Accident?
Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy is an area of ongoing research within the regenerative medicine field and holds promise for various medical conditions, including brain injuries. MSCs are a type of adult stem cell that can be derived from different sources, such as bone marrow, adipose tissue (fat), or umbilical cord tissue.
Preclinical studies and early clinical trials suggest that MSC therapy may have potential benefits in brain injury repair. Here are some ways in which MSC therapy might help:
Anti-inflammatory effects: MSCs have immunomodulatory properties, meaning they can regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation. In brain injuries, inflammation plays a significant role in secondary damage. MSCs have been shown to decrease inflammation in animal models of brain injury, potentially promoting a more favorable environment for healing.
Neuroprotective effects: MSCs may secrete various factors that have protective effects on brain cells. These factors can enhance cell survival, promote tissue repair, and stimulate the growth and differentiation of new neurons. Additionally, MSCs may have antioxidant properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress, which can be harmful to brain cells.
Modulation of scar formation: Following a brain injury, scar tissue formation can impede the regeneration and repair process. MSCs may modulate scar formation by reducing the deposition of scar tissue components and promoting tissue remodeling.
Promotion of angiogenesis: MSCs have the potential to stimulate the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). This can enhance blood flow to the injured brain tissue, delivering oxygen and nutrients, which are essential for the healing process.Early results of MSC therapy for brain injuries are promising and the field of regenerative medicine is ongoing with its research. It’s always advisable to consult with healthcare professionals and experts in the field to discuss potential treatment options for brain injuries. If you are interested in learning more about the symptoms of Brain Injury From a Car Accident, contact a care coordinator today from Stemedix!
This website and its contents are not intended to treat, cure, diagnose, or prevent any disease. Stemedix, Inc. shall not be held liable for the medical claims made by patient testimonials or videos. They are not to be viewed as a guarantee for each individual. The efficacy for some products presented have not been confirmed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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