From diagnosis to treatment of post-polio syndrome: A case study

Abstract

Introduction: Acute anterior poliomyelitis (AAP) can affect people of any age, despite being uncommon before six months. The viral invasion destroys the lower motor neurons of the spinal cord, brain, and brainstem. As a result, it leads to partial or complete flaccid and asymmetrical paralysis of the lower limb and spine muscles. Big names like Frida Kahlo and US President Franklin D Roosevelt were diagnosed with polio. Case Report: We present the case of a patient with AAP diagnosed at two years of age. As an adult, he gave osteomyoarticular sequelae, insomnia, new central (adynamia), peripheral fatigue, cold intolerance, joint and neuropathic pain. The patient received a clinical diagnosis of post-polio syndrome (PPS) after fulfilling Dalakas criteria. The physical examination showed some hallmarks of AAP, in addition to those primarily affected by PPS. Conclusion: Post-polio syndrome is a disorder characterized by new neuromuscular deficits that present years after the resolution of polio infection. However, far beyond the physical pain, the psychosocial impact is staggering. Therefore, in addition to surgical intervention and physical therapy, attention should be paid to the psychological follow-up of this patient, who is most often elderly.