Atherosclerotic myelopathy

Atherosclerotic myelopathy is a chronic progressive disease of the spinal cord caused by a narrowing of the lumen of the spinal canal and the vessels supplying the spinal cord as a result of the development of atherosclerosis.

Reasons for development:

1. Atherosclerosis of the vessels supplying the spinal cord. The accumulation of cholesterol plaques in the walls of the arteries leads to their narrowing and impaired blood flow.
2. Spondylosis and osteochondrosis of the spine. The growth of bone tissue of the vertebrae and intervertebral discs narrows the spinal canal.

Symptoms:

1. Gradually increasing weakness and numbness of the legs.
2. Sensory disturbances in the lower extremities.
3. Loss of coordination and gait.
4. Leg pain.
5. Disorders of the pelvic organs.

Diagnosis is based on medical history, neurological examination, MRI and CT scan of the spine.

Treatment includes drug therapy, physiotherapy, exercise therapy, and in some cases, surgical treatment.

The prognosis depends on the stage and rate of progression of the disease. With timely diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to slow down the development of myelopathy and improve the patient’s quality of life.