Question

Which level of spinal cord is predominantly affected in patients with HAM/TSP? a. cervical level b. thoracic level c. lumbar level

Short answer

Answer: The thoracic level of the spinal cord is predominantly affected in patients with HAM/TSP.

Step-by-step solution

Understand HAM/TSP

HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy/Tropical Spastic Paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a slowly progressive neurological disorder caused by the human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1). It is characterized by muscle weakness, stiffness and spasms in the lower extremities, as well as urinary and bowel dysfunction.

Identify the affected spinal cord level

In HAM/TSP, the thoracic level of the spinal cord is predominantly affected. This is due to the fact that HTLV-1 mainly targets the cells in the thoracic spinal cord, leading to inflammation and damage to the nerve fibers that control muscle movement and sensation in the lower extremities.

Conclusion

The level of the spinal cord that is predominantly affected in patients with HAM/TSP is the thoracic level (option b).