Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects polio survivors. About 20% to 40% of people who recover from polio will later develop PPS. The onset may occur 10 to 40 years after the initial polio attack.
The exact cause is unknown. It is not due to renewed progression of the original polio infection. However, long-term damage to nerve and muscle cells caused by the polio may contribute to the development of PPS.
These factors increase your chance of developing PPS. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:
Symptoms may include:
If the symptoms during the first attack of polio were severe, the symptoms of PPS may also be severe.
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. She will also do a neuromuscular exam. PPS may be hard to diagnose because symptoms come and go. They also overlap with other diseases.
Testing often involves electromyography. This measures electrical activity in affected muscles. Other, less common tests may include:
Treatment focuses on managing symptoms. The goals are to:
Treatment may include:
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html/
References:
Dalakas M. IVIg in other autoimmune neurological disorders: current status and future prospects. Journal of Neurology. 2008;255(Suppl 3):12-16.
Howard R. Poliomyelitis and the postpolio syndrome. BMJ . 2005;330:1314-1318.
The Post-polio program. National Rehabilitation Hospital website.
Available at:
http://www.nrhrehab.org/Patient+Care/Programs+and+Service+Offerings/Outpatient+Services/Service_Page.aspx?id=39
.
Post-polio syndrome. Mayo Clinic website. Available at: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/post-polio-syndrome/DS00494/DSECTION=symptoms . Updated March 2, 2008. Accessed February 9, 2009.
Rowland LP, ed. Merritt's Neurology . 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2005.
Last reviewed January 2009 by Rimas Lukas, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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