Post polio syndrome

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects poliomyelitis survivors years after recovery from an initial acute attack of the poliovirus. PPS is characterized by a further weakening of muscles that were previously affected by the polio infection. The symptoms of PPS include muscle and joint weakness, fatigue, and pain. It is a slowly progressing condition that can lead to a decrease in muscle strength and endurance, affecting the ability to perform daily activities.

Etiology

The exact cause of PPS is not well understood, but it is believed to result from the degeneration of individual nerve terminals in the motor units that remain after the initial polio infection. This degeneration is thought to be a normal aging process that is accelerated in the motor units that have had to compensate for the loss of others due to polio.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of PPS include:

• Fatigue
• Muscle weakness
• Muscle and joint pain
• Breathing or swallowing problems
• Sleep-related breathing disorders
• Decreased tolerance for cold temperatures

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of PPS is primarily based on a medical history and physical examination. There are no specific laboratory tests for PPS, but tests such as electromyography (EMG) and muscle biopsies can be used to exclude other conditions.

Treatment

There is no cure for PPS, but treatment is focused on managing symptoms. This may include:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy (if swallowing or breathing is affected)
• Pain management
• Use of assistive devices

Prognosis

The progression of PPS is generally slow, and life expectancy is not significantly affected. However, the quality of life can be impacted due to decreased mobility and increased disability.

Prevention

There is no known prevention for PPS. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding overuse of affected muscles, and participating in regular physical therapy may help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Epidemiology

PPS affects approximately 25-50% of polio survivors. The condition typically occurs 15 to 40 years after the initial polio infection. The risk of developing PPS increases with the severity of the original polio infection.

History

Post-polio syndrome was first recognized in the late 19th century, but it was not until the polio epidemics of the 20th century that the condition became widely acknowledged. The term "post-polio syndrome" was coined in the 1980s to describe the cluster of symptoms affecting polio survivors years after recovery.

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