CD8 transverse myelitis in a patient with HIV-1 infection.

CD8 T-cell neurological complications are a new HIV-driven condition caused by an unusually intense inflammatory reaction with influx of CD8 lymphocytes in the nervous system. Encephalitis and neuropathies have been described. We report the first case of spinal cord involvement. A 52-year-old African woman with HIV infection not profoundly immunosuppressed, and with a low plasmatic viral replication, without antiretroviral therapy, presented with transverse myelitis. Spinal MRI revealed inflammatory intraspinal gadolinium-enhanced lesions. Exhaustive workup was negative and brain biopsy revealed a significant inflammatory reaction with abundant CD8 T cells. Intravenous pulse methylprednisolone treatment led to rapid, disease-free recovery. CD8 T cells transverse myelitis in patients with HIV infection receiving antiretroviral therapy is a clinical entity that should be added to the list of HIV complications.