Which term denotes inflammation of the spinal cord?

• A. Neuritis
• B. Meningitis
• C. Encephalitis
• D. Transverse myelitis

Answer: (D)

Inflammation that affects the spinal cord is called transverse myelitis. The term “transverse” refers to involvement across the width of the cord, causing dysfunction on both sides below the level of the inflammation. This contrasts with neuritis, which is inflammation of a nerve, meningitis, which is inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, and encephalitis, which is inflammation of brain tissue. Because transverse myelitis specifically targets the spinal cord itself, it produces symptoms related to spinal cord function—such as changes in motor strength, sensation, and autonomic control below the affected level.