Abstract

CARDENAS-CRUZ, Andrés Felipe et al. Chronic Weakness Syndrome As A Presentation Of Post-Polio Syndrome. Rev Ecuat Neurol [online]. 2023, vol.32, n.2, pp.105-110. ISSN 2631-2581.  https://doi.org/10.46997/revecuatneurol32200105.

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is characterized by progressive weakness, muscle fatigue, joint pain, and an increase in disability, which occurs decades after an episode of poliomyelitis. The cause of progressive neurological deterioration is unknown; however, the main hypotheses suggest induction of autoimmunity. There are no pathognomonic findings or specific tests that diagnose PPS; therefore, the diagnosis is made based on the clinic and the history of a polio episode at least 15 years before the onset of new symptoms. We present a case of a man,with a history of poliomyelitis who approximately 40 years later presents a slow progression of weakness, areflexia, atrophy, and fasciculation. Although the frequency of PPS is low, symptoms are disabling, and they cause great impairment in the patient’s functionality. Since there is no specific treatment, the management of PPS is mainly symptomatic and supportive.

Keywords : Post-polio syndrome; progressive muscle weakness; muscle fatigue; poliomyelitis; lower motor neuron..

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