Acute transverse myelitis (ATM) is a rare, immune-mediated disorder of the spinal cord characterized by sensory, motor, and autonomic dysfunction. Although the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is widely regarded as safe, isolated reports have suggested a potential temporal association with autoimmune neurological events, including ATM. We present a case of a 21-year-old woman who developed ATM two weeks following administration of the first dose of the HPV vaccine (Cervarix). The clinical presentation included rapid-onset paraparesis, sensory deficits, and sphincter dysfunction. An MRI revealed a T2-hyperintense lesion at the Th10–Th12 level. A cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed elevated protein levels. The patient underwent corticosteroid therapy, plasmapheresis, and IVIG, followed by a comprehensive, individualized rehabilitation program. This included balance and stability training, Redcord-based neuromuscular activation, electrostimulation, and pelvic floor therapy. Although no causal link between HPV vaccination and ATM has been established, this case emphasizes the importance of considering post-vaccinal autoimmune phenomena. More importantly, it illustrates the critical role of early, targeted rehabilitation—particularly pelvic floor re-education and neuromodulation—in improving outcomes in patients with significant motor and autonomic deficits.
We report the case of a 55-year-old man with multi-symptomatic transverse myelitis after vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The patient was diagnosed based on the course of the disease and the results of imaging and laboratory tests. We excluded other most probable causes of the disease. The quick start of diagnosis allowed for early treatment with intravenous steroids and then plasmapheresis and the implementation of modern rehabilitation methods using biofeedback platforms, among others, and an exoskeleton. The patient returned to work, but the rehabilitation process continues to this day due to persistent symptoms that impair the patient’s quality of life.