Review articleMyelitis in systemic lupus erythematosus

- SLE-associated transverse myelitis is a rare but serious complication of SLE.
- Auto-antibody plays a role in SLE-ATM, multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica.
- Treatment with rituximab and anticoagulant is useful in selected cases.

SLE-associated acute transverse myelitis (ATM) is a rare, but potentially severe complication of Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and may lead to significant motor, sensory and autonomic dysfunctions in the central nervous system resulting in marked neurological deficits. It is important to recognize its clinical feature to allow timely diagnosis and management of this condition. In this review, we aimed to provide the reader with the understanding of its clinical presentation and classification, the underlying pathological, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) appearance, and current status of management, with an emphasis on recent discoveries and advancements.