Vacuolar myopathy

Overview

Neurology A heterogeneous group of conditions characterized by spinal cord degeneration; VM occurs in up to 20% of AIDS Pts; it is most extensive in the lateral columns of the middle and lower thoracic segments. Cf Spongy degeneration.

Treatment

Although vitamin B12 deficiency has been linked to myelopathy, research suggests that its deficiency is not the cause of myelopathy in people with AIDS. Consequently, it is unlikely that vitamin supplements will have an effect on this HIV-associated condition. Current treatment approaches are limited, although physical therapy and antiretroviral therapy may be of benefit: one published case study has shown that highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) successfully treated HIV-related vacuolar myelopathy (Staudinger 2000).