Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can affect the nervous system at multiple levels, among which SLE-associated transverse myelitis is an infrequent but potentially severe complication affecting around 1% of SLE population. To assist a timely diagnosis and optimal outcome, the clinical and radiological features, differential diagnosis (particularly with other central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating disorders), current therapeutic approach and the prognosis of SLE-associated myelitis are presented based on recent data and progress.