Subacute combined degeneration

Alternative names:

SCD; subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord

Treatment:

Early treatment improves the chance of a good outcome, so the disease should be treated promptly.

Vitamin B12 is given, usually by intramuscular injection, in large doses. Injections are often given daily for about 1 week, then weekly for about 1 month, then monthly. Vitamin B12 injections must continue throughout life.

Expectations (prognosis):

Response to treatment depends on how long symptoms have been present before treatment. Treatment within a few weeks usually results in complete recovery. If symptoms have been present for longer than 1 or 2 months, partial recovery can be expected. If symptoms have been present for many months, progression of symptoms may be slowed or stopped but recovery of lost function is unlikely. B12 injections must be continued lifelong or symptoms will recur.

Untreated, the disorder results in progressive and irreversible damage to the nervous system.

Complications:

Complications can include permanent, progressive loss of nerve functions.

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if abnormal sensations, muscle weakness, or other symptoms of subacute combined degeneration develop, particularly if there is a personal or family history of pernicious anemia or other risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment improve the chance of a good outcome.