Poliomyelitis

Poliomyelitis is an acute viral infection caused by poliovirus affecting anterior horn cells of the spinal cord. Clinical features range from mild febrile illness to flaccid paralysis. Pathophysiology involves viral-induced neuronal destruction in the spinal cord. Diagnosis is based on clinical presentation, stool PCR for poliovirus, and serology. Management is supportive, including respiratory care and rehabilitation; prognosis varies from full recovery to permanent paralysis.