Abstract

CORTI, M. et al. Acute necrotizing myelitis in an AIDS patient. Medicina (B. Aires) [online]. 2003, vol.63, n.2, pp.143-146. ISSN 0025-7680.

In the setting of HIV infection, cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex virus type 1-2 (HSV 1-2) can affect both the central and peripheral nervous systems. These agents can involve the spinal cord and produce a necrotizing transverse myelitis. This usually occurs in AIDS patients with severe immunodeficiency: CD4 + lymphocyte counts typically are less than 50 cell/µL. The clinical presentation, CSF and imaging studies can provide a high level of suspicion diagnosis. Prompt initiation of antiviral specific drugs is essential. We report a patient with an acute necrotizing myelitis (cauda equina syndrome) secondary to CMV and HSV infections. 

Keywords : HIV; Myelitis; CMV; HSV.

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