Radiculomyelitis complicating acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis. A clinical study

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Virology
• Public Health

Background:

• Acute haemorrhagic conjunctivitis (AHC) is a viral infection.
• Neurological complications following AHC are rare but can be severe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the clinical presentation and outcomes of radiculomyelitis following AHC.
• To identify the role of AHC virus in causing neurological disease.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective case series of 14 patients with radiculomyelitis post-AHC.
• Clinical examination, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and electromyography were performed.
• Serological tests were conducted to confirm AHC virus infection.

Main Results:

• Patients developed limb weakness approximately 2 weeks after AHC onset.
• Common symptoms included fever, malaise, root pain, and flaccid paralysis.
• Cerebrospinal fluid showed lymphocytosis and elevated protein; EMG indicated motor neuron or root lesions.
• Virological studies confirmed AHC virus infection in 10 out of 12 patients.
• Corticosteroid treatment provided pain relief but did not significantly improve motor weakness.
• Motor function improved in 10 patients by 2 months, but 4 had persistent weakness.

Conclusions:

• Radiculomyelitis is a significant neurological complication of AHC.
• AHC virus is implicated in the pathogenesis of this neurological condition.
• Effective public health strategies are needed to control AHC outbreaks and prevent neurological sequelae.