Canadian Medical Guide > Diseases > Virus Diseases > Central Nervous System Viral Diseases > Myelitis > Poliomyelitis Terms and Definitions




Poliomyelitis

Medical Definition: An acute infectious disease of humans, particularly children, caused by any of three serotypes of human poliovirus (POLIOVIRUS). Usually the infection is limited to the gastrointestinal tract and nasopharynx, and is often asymptomatic. The central nervous system, primarily the spinal cord, may be affected, leading to rapidly progressive paralysis, coarse FASCICULATION and hyporeflexia. Motor neurons are primarily affected. Encephalitis may also occur. The virus replicates in the nervous system, and may cause significant neuronal loss, most notably in the spinal cord. A rare related condition, nonpoliovirus poliomyelitis, may result from infections with nonpoliovirus enteroviruses. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp764-5)
Also Called: Encephalitis, Polio,Infantile Paralysis,Poliomyelitis, Nonpoliovirus,Poliomyelitis, Preparalytic
Poliomyelitis Categories.
Canadian Medical Guide Definition Poliomyelitis, Bulbar - A form of paralytic poliomyelitis affecting neurons of the MEDULLA OBLONGATA of the brain stem. Clinical features include impaired respiration, HYPERTENSION, alterations of vasomotor control, and dysphagia. Weakness and atrophy of the limbs and trunk due to spinal cord involvement is usually associated. (From Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p765)
Canadian Medical Guide Definition Postpoliomyelitis Syndrome - A syndrome characterized by new neuromuscular symptoms that occur at least 15 years after clinical stability has been attained in patients with a prior history of symptomatic poliomyelitis. Clinical features include new muscular weakness and atrophy of the limbs, bulbar innervated musculature, and muscles of respiration, combined with excessive fatigue, joint pain, and reduced stamina. The process is marked by slow progression and periods of stabilization. (From Ann NY Acad Sci 1995 May 25;753:68-80)

Poliomyelitis Medical Definitions and Terms

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