Transvers Myelitis Due to HSV-2 Infection in an Undiagnosed HIV Positive Patient

Several disorders including inflammatory, ischemic, and metabolic can cause longitudinally extensive transverse myelopathy. HIV-associated spinal cord involvement is rare. It can be due to AIDS-associated myelopathy, or opportunistic infections such as cytomegalovirus and herpes simplex virus (HSV). Herein, we describe a 49-year-old man who presented with acute paraparesis and urinary retention. His spinal magnetic resonance imaging revealed extensive hyperintense signal in the long TR sequence throughout C2 to T12, especially in the posterior and lateral columns. Both HIV ELISA test and HSV-2 DNA polymerase chain reaction were positive. Despite treatment, his clinical condition deteriorated. Acute transverse myelopathy can be the initial manifestation of an asymptomatic undiagnosed HIV positive patient. Viral serology reveals the opportunistic infections underlying the disease thereby guiding therapeutic regimens.