Post-Polio Syndrome – Part 2

“Years of high use of these enlarged motor units adds stress to the neuronal cell body, which then may not be able to maintain the metabolic demands of all the the new sprouts, resulting in the slow deterioration of motor units.

“How is PPS diagnosed?

“Researchers and physicians typically use the following criteria to establish a diagnosis:

*Prior paralytic poliomyelitis with evidence of motor neuron loss, as confirmed by a history of the acute paralytic illness, signs of residual weakness and atrophy of muscles on neuromuscular examination and signs of nerve damage on an EMG.

*A period of partial or complete functional recovery after acute paralytic poliomyelitis, followed by an interval (usually 15 years or more) of stable neuronuscular function.

*Gradual onset of progressive and persistent new muscle weakness or muscle fatigability (decreased endurance), with or without generalized fatigue, muscle atrophy, or muscle and joint pain. Onset may at times follow trauma, surgery, or a period of inactivity and can appear to be sudden. Less commonly, symptoms attributed to PPS include new problems with breathing or swallowing.

*Symptoms that persist for at least a year

*Exclusion of other neuromuscular, medical and othopedic problems as causes of symptoms.

(to be continued)