Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 27, 2026
Whole Body Vibration Methods with Survivors of Polio
Published on: October 17, 2018
Acute Flaccid Myelitis: Lessons From Polio
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor.
Abstract:
With the eradication of poliomyelitis in the United States, the appearance of acute flaccid myelitis outbreaks has raised questions regarding their causation. Review of the epidemiology, clinical aspects, and laboratory findings of bygone cases of poliomyelitis have revealed shows important similarities with those of newer cases of acute flaccid myelitis. Many occurrences are preceded by an apparent viral illness, and a number of viruses, particularly enteroviruses A71 and D68, can be isolated from respiratory or stool specimens. Our inability to detect these viruses in cerebrospinal fluid samples from these patients does not eliminate them as etiologic agents, because poliovirus is often not detected in cerebrospinal fluid samples of patients with paralysis caused by poliomyelitis.
Insights
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) outbreaks share similarities with polio cases. Viruses like enterovirus A71 and D68 may cause AFM, even if not found in cerebrospinal fluid.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Poliomyelitis eradication in the US has been followed by acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) outbreaks.
- The causation of AFM remains a significant public health question.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the epidemiology, clinical presentation, and laboratory findings of poliomyelitis and AFM.
- To explore potential viral etiologies for AFM.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical poliomyelitis cases and recent AFM outbreaks.
- Analysis of epidemiological data, clinical characteristics, and laboratory results.
- Investigation of viral isolation from respiratory and stool specimens.
Main Results:
- Similarities identified between poliomyelitis and AFM cases in epidemiology and clinical presentation.
- Viral illnesses often precede AFM occurrences.
- Enteroviruses A71 and D68 are frequently isolated from respiratory or stool samples in AFM patients.
Conclusions:
- Enteroviruses, including enterovirus A71 and D68, are potential causative agents of AFM.
- The absence of virus detection in cerebrospinal fluid does not rule out an etiologic role, mirroring poliovirus detection patterns.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis is the inflammation of the back of the throat (pharynx), commonly resulting in a sore throat. It is a frequently encountered condition that prompts individuals to seek medical advice.
Classification
Acute pharyngitis can be categorized based on its underlying cause:
01:27Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
01:21Acute Respiratory Failure-I
Definition: It is defined by specific criteria based on blood gas measurements. Hypoxemia happens when the partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2) falls below 60 mmHg. At the same time,...
01:21Acute Respiratory Failure-II
The underlying physiological abnormalities that contribute to hypoxemic respiratory failure include:
01:29Acute Respiratory Failure-V
Ensure that patients are monitored continuously for their response to therapy, including changes in...
01:27Acute Pyelonephritis I: Introduction