Myelopathy due to delayed radiation (Q96246)

Chronic progressive radiation myelitis, typically presents several months after the conclusion of radiation. Latency periods range from 1 month to 13 years, with the shorter intervals usually seen at higher radiation doses and in the paediatric age group. It tends to cause progressive sensory impairment on the lower limbs followed by progressive myelopathy. Treatment is with corticosteroids but this only leads to a temporary improvement. There is generally secondary necrosis and atrophy of the cord because of vasculopathy.