[Polio, late effects and post-polio].

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Infectious Diseases
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Over 7,000 Danes live with sequelae from acute polio infections.
• Late polio effects include deformities, arthrosis, and muscle overload.
• Polio survivors face risks of decreased muscle function and post-polio syndrome (PPS).

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the late effects of polio and the challenges in managing post-polio syndrome (PPS).
• To review current symptomatic treatments for PPS.
• To highlight recent findings on intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy for PPS.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on polio sequelae and post-polio syndrome.
• Analysis of recent studies investigating novel treatment modalities for PPS.
• Assessment of the impact of IVIG on key PPS symptoms.

Main Results:

• PPS is characterized by progressive muscle dysfunction and diverse symptoms.
• Standard PPS treatment is primarily symptomatic.
• IVIG therapy has demonstrated potential benefits for pain, fatigue, and walking distance in PPS patients.

Conclusions:

• Polio survivors are at increased risk for long-term health complications and mortality.
• PPS management requires ongoing symptomatic care.
• IVIG represents a potential therapeutic option for improving quality of life in post-polio syndrome.