T2 MRI of cervical spine demonstrating normal cord signal (green circle) and increased T2 signal in the central cord (red circle). Diagnostic criteria In 2002, the<unk>  Consortium Working Group proposed the following diagnostic criteria for idiopathic acute<unk> : Investigations Individuals who develop<unk>  are typically transferred to a neurologist who can urgently investigate the patient in a hospital. If breathing is affected, particularly in upper spinal cord lesions, methods of artificial ventilation must be on hand before and during the transfer procedure. The patient should also be catheterized to test for and, if necessary, drain an over-distended bladder. A lumbar puncture can be performed after the MRI or at the time of CT myelography. Corticosteroids are often given in high doses when symptoms begin with the hope that the degree of inflammation and swelling of the spinal cord will be lessened, but whether this is truly effective is still debated. Differential diagnosis The differential diagnosis of acute<unk>  includes demyelinating disorders, such as multiple sclerosis and neuromyelitis optica, infections, such as herpes zoster and herpes simplex virus, and other types of inflammatory disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and neurosarcoidosis. It is important to also rule out an acute cause of compression on the spinal cord.
Transverse myelitis
Lhermitte's sign
Vascular myelopathy
Acute flaccid myelitis
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Surfer's myelopathy
CMV polyradiculomyelopathy
Primary lateral sclerosis