What is subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord?
Disease description:
Recently, after using the restroom, I have been experiencing dizziness and blurred vision. Occasionally, I also have weakness and stiffness in my lower limbs. After visiting the hospital, I was diagnosed with subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord. May I ask what subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord is?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Subacute combined degeneration is a rare neurological disorder primarily caused by vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 helps maintain normal nervous system function, and its deficiency may lead to demyelinating lesions in the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal cord, affecting sensory conduction and motor function.
The main pathological changes occur in the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal cord and the peripheral nerves. Clinical manifestations are varied and include loss of deep sensation in both lower limbs, sensory ataxia, spastic paralysis, and peripheral neuropathy. Patients often exhibit clinical signs of anemia. Additionally, some patients may experience optic nerve lesions, such as optic atrophy, visual impairment, or even blindness, as well as psychiatric symptoms including apathy, somnolence, and depression.
In terms of treatment, once diagnosed, high-dose vitamin B12 should be promptly administered to prevent irreversible neurological damage. Anemic patients and those with achlorhydria also require appropriate additional treatments. Moreover, functional exercise of paralyzed limbs, along with acupuncture, physical therapy, and rehabilitation therapy, can help promote functional recovery.
