Title: Plasma CHI3L1 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Potential Differential Diagnostic Biomarker
Author: Alessandro Bombaci*, Umberto Manera, Giovanni De Marco, Federico Casale, Paolina Salamone, Giuseppe Fuda, Giulia Marchese, Barbara Iazzolino, Laura Peotta, Cristina Moglia, Andrea Calvo and Adriano Chiò
Affiliation: “Rita Levi Montalcini” Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
Journal: NEW - PUT DETAILS IN CITATION FIELD
Citation: J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(6), 2367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12062367
Publication Year and Month: 2023 03

Abstract: Background: Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Biomarkers could help with defining patients’ prognoses and stratifications. Besides neurofilaments, chitinases are a promising family of possible biomarkers which correlate with neuroinflammatory status. We evaluated the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 in MNDs, MND mimics, and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods: We used a sandwich ELISA to quantify the CHI3L1 in plasma samples from 44 MND patients, 7 hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) patients, 9 MND mimics, and 19 HCs. We also collected a ALSFRSr scale, MRC scale, spirometry, mutational status, progression rate (PR), blood sampling, and neuropsychological evaluation.

Results: The plasma levels of the CHI3L1 were different among groups (p = 0.005). Particularly, the MND mimics showed higher CHI3L1 levels compared with the MND patients and HCs. The CHI3L1 levels did not differ among PMA, PLS, and ALS, and we did not find a correlation among the CHI3L1 levels and clinical scores, spirometry parameters, PR, and neuropsychological features. Of note, the red blood cell count and haemoglobin was correlated with the CHI3L1 levels (respectively, p < 0.001, r = 0.63; p = 0.022, and r = 0.52).

Conclusions: The CHI3L1 plasma levels were increased in the MND mimics cohort compared with MNDs group. The increase of CHI3L1 in neuroinflammatory processes could explain our findings. We confirmed that the CHI3L1 plasma levels did not allow for differentiation between ALS and HCs, nor were they correlated with neuropsychological impairment.

Keywords: biomarker; chitinases; cognitive impairment; differential diagnosis; early diagnosis; MND mimics; red blood cells

Conclusions: The measurement of the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 could be useful in the differential diagnosis between MNDs and MND mimics. This is an important issue, since the early diagnosis of an MND is a determinant in the early starting of neuroprotective therapy and in clinical trial recruitment.
Further multicentre and longitudinal studies on a larger patient cohort, testing alongside other fluid biomarkers, are needed to better explain the role of CHI3L1 in the diagnosis and prognosis of MNDs and, also, of MND mimics.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any): This article is helpful for any medical/neurologist trying to determine differential diagnosis of ALS vs post-polio.

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Diagnosing Post-Polio Syndrome in the Elderly, a Case Report
Author: Amole, M. & Khouzam-Skelton, N.
Affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
Journal: Geriatrics
Citation: 2(2), 14; doi:10.3390/geriatrics2020014
Publication Year and Month: 2017 02

Abstract: Poliomyelitis is a disorder of the nervous system caused by an enterovirus. There are many survivors who, years later, develop a little-understood condition called Post-polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome is a group of delayed sequalae of polio infection that can cause paralysis and bulbar symptoms in patients with a history of polio infection who have had a prolonged symptom-free period, often greater than two decades. Diagnosis of post-polio syndrome is difficult in the geriatric population because many of the symptoms overlap with other disease processes affecting older individuals. An extensive workup is necessary to exclude more concerning etiologies. Furthermore, several symptoms can be attributed to normal ageing. We present the case of an elderly patient with a history of poliomyelitis and multiple comorbidities who presented with complaints of weakness and fatigue.

Conclusions: Post-polio syndrome is an interesting disorder characterized by new neuromuscular deficits that present years after the resolution of a polio infection. There are several diagnostic criteria, but one of the most important is the exclusion of other possible diagnoses. Post-polio syndrome diagnosis is even more difficult in the elderly population due to the presence of multiple comorbid conditions. Extensive testing may be necessary for an appropriate diagnosis in this population.

Outcome of Research: Not applicable

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Health and Social Considerations in Norwegian Polio Survivors: A 20-Year Follow-up Study
Author: Festvag L, Schanke A-K, Gilhus NE, et al.
Affiliation: Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital
University of Oslo
University of Bergen; Haukelund University Hospital, Bergen
Journal: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
Citation: J Rehabil Med. 2016;48(8):688-695
Publication Year and Month: 2016 10

Abstract: Objective: To explore the physical and social situation of the Norwegian polio population in 2014, and to compare the status of this population in 2014 with the results of a similar survey carried out 20 years previously, in 1994.

Design: The study was based on a questionnaire covering demographics, polio history, and current medical, psychological and social conditions.

Subjects: The questionnaire was prepared in cooperation with the National Society of Polio Survivors and others with known polio (n = 1,968). A total of 1,408 persons responded (72%), mean age 70 years (range 28–98 years).

Results: The most frequent health problems reported were muscle and joint pain, cold intolerance and insomnia. New muscle weakness and loss of muscle volume were reported more frequently in 2014 than in the 1994 study. The use of orthopaedic aids, assistive devices, ventilators and other respiratory aids had increased significantly, but 83% reported that they still had no home care or nursing services support. The 2014 polio population reported only minor subjective worsening of health and well-being compared with the 1994 cohort.

Conclusion: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Conclusions: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Postpolio Syndrome: A Review of Lived Experiences of Patients
Author: Oluwaseyi Jacob Oluwasanmi, Devaunna Andrene Mckenzie, Idowu Oluwasegun Adewole, Christian O Aluka, James Iyasse, Esther Olunu, and Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya1
Affiliation: Department of Microbiology, All Saints University School of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica, Roseau, Dominica
1Department of Anatomical Sciences, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
Address for correspondence: Dr. Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. E-mail: [email protected]
Journal: International Journal of Applied & Basic Medical Research
Citation: 9(3), 129–134. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijabmr.IJABMR_333_18
Publication Year and Month: 2019 07

Abstract: Postpolio syndrome (PPS) refers to a group of conditions that are present in patients, years after recovery from initial acute paralytic poliomyelitis. About 15%–80% of 20 million polio survivors worldwide will experience exacerbation of symptoms which typically appear 15–30 years after the resolution of initial poliomyelitis. Symptoms include new muscle weakness, fatigue, myalgia, joint pain, dysphagia, and difficulty breathing. Other reported symptoms include cold intolerance, sleep disorder, dysphonia, loss of stamina, musculoskeletal deformities, cardiovascular disorders, psychosocial problems, and restless legs syndrome. These symptoms are attributed to the superimposed neuronal loss of aging with inflammatory mechanisms, but without any convincing evidence of viral reactivation. Risk factors include female gender, respiratory symptoms, normal aging, permanent disability caused by motor neuron damage, muscle overuse and disuse, aging, and immunologic mechanisms. Hypothyroidism-induced myopathy and fibromyalgia are a differential diagnosis for PPS, and exclusion diagnosis is required as confirmatory criteria for PPS. The symptoms of PPS presented determine the course of management.

Keywords: Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, poliomyelitis, postpolio syndrome

Conclusions: PPS is a sequela of acute poliomyelitis which occurs decades after resolution of the initial paralytic or nonparalytic polio. Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, and joint pain are the major symptoms of PPS. Diagnosis of PPS is made based on the exclusion of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. The quality of life of patients with PPS is significantly affected by the reoccurrence of the constellations of symptoms they experience. Proper assessment and treatment should be performed to prevent severe impairment of function in patients.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

There are currently 4 papers in this category.

Title: Diagnosing Post-Polio Syndrome in the Elderly, a Case Report
Author: Amole, M. & Khouzam-Skelton, N.
Affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
Journal: Geriatrics
Citation: 2(2), 14; doi:10.3390/geriatrics2020014
Publication Year and Month: 2017 02

Abstract: Poliomyelitis is a disorder of the nervous system caused by an enterovirus. There are many survivors who, years later, develop a little-understood condition called Post-polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome is a group of delayed sequalae of polio infection that can cause paralysis and bulbar symptoms in patients with a history of polio infection who have had a prolonged symptom-free period, often greater than two decades. Diagnosis of post-polio syndrome is difficult in the geriatric population because many of the symptoms overlap with other disease processes affecting older individuals. An extensive workup is necessary to exclude more concerning etiologies. Furthermore, several symptoms can be attributed to normal ageing. We present the case of an elderly patient with a history of poliomyelitis and multiple comorbidities who presented with complaints of weakness and fatigue.

Conclusions: Post-polio syndrome is an interesting disorder characterized by new neuromuscular deficits that present years after the resolution of a polio infection. There are several diagnostic criteria, but one of the most important is the exclusion of other possible diagnoses. Post-polio syndrome diagnosis is even more difficult in the elderly population due to the presence of multiple comorbid conditions. Extensive testing may be necessary for an appropriate diagnosis in this population.

Outcome of Research: Not applicable

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Postpolio Syndrome: A Review of Lived Experiences of Patients
Author: Oluwaseyi Jacob Oluwasanmi, Devaunna Andrene Mckenzie, Idowu Oluwasegun Adewole, Christian O Aluka, James Iyasse, Esther Olunu, and Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya1
Affiliation: Department of Microbiology, All Saints University School of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica, Roseau, Dominica
1Department of Anatomical Sciences, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
Address for correspondence: Dr. Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. E-mail: [email protected]
Journal: International Journal of Applied & Basic Medical Research
Citation: 9(3), 129–134. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijabmr.IJABMR_333_18
Publication Year and Month: 2019 07

Abstract: Postpolio syndrome (PPS) refers to a group of conditions that are present in patients, years after recovery from initial acute paralytic poliomyelitis. About 15%–80% of 20 million polio survivors worldwide will experience exacerbation of symptoms which typically appear 15–30 years after the resolution of initial poliomyelitis. Symptoms include new muscle weakness, fatigue, myalgia, joint pain, dysphagia, and difficulty breathing. Other reported symptoms include cold intolerance, sleep disorder, dysphonia, loss of stamina, musculoskeletal deformities, cardiovascular disorders, psychosocial problems, and restless legs syndrome. These symptoms are attributed to the superimposed neuronal loss of aging with inflammatory mechanisms, but without any convincing evidence of viral reactivation. Risk factors include female gender, respiratory symptoms, normal aging, permanent disability caused by motor neuron damage, muscle overuse and disuse, aging, and immunologic mechanisms. Hypothyroidism-induced myopathy and fibromyalgia are a differential diagnosis for PPS, and exclusion diagnosis is required as confirmatory criteria for PPS. The symptoms of PPS presented determine the course of management.

Keywords: Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, poliomyelitis, postpolio syndrome

Conclusions: PPS is a sequela of acute poliomyelitis which occurs decades after resolution of the initial paralytic or nonparalytic polio. Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, and joint pain are the major symptoms of PPS. Diagnosis of PPS is made based on the exclusion of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. The quality of life of patients with PPS is significantly affected by the reoccurrence of the constellations of symptoms they experience. Proper assessment and treatment should be performed to prevent severe impairment of function in patients.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Health and Social Considerations in Norwegian Polio Survivors: A 20-Year Follow-up Study
Author: Festvag L, Schanke A-K, Gilhus NE, et al.
Affiliation: Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital
University of Oslo
University of Bergen; Haukelund University Hospital, Bergen
Journal: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
Citation: J Rehabil Med. 2016;48(8):688-695
Publication Year and Month: 2016 10

Abstract: Objective: To explore the physical and social situation of the Norwegian polio population in 2014, and to compare the status of this population in 2014 with the results of a similar survey carried out 20 years previously, in 1994.

Design: The study was based on a questionnaire covering demographics, polio history, and current medical, psychological and social conditions.

Subjects: The questionnaire was prepared in cooperation with the National Society of Polio Survivors and others with known polio (n = 1,968). A total of 1,408 persons responded (72%), mean age 70 years (range 28–98 years).

Results: The most frequent health problems reported were muscle and joint pain, cold intolerance and insomnia. New muscle weakness and loss of muscle volume were reported more frequently in 2014 than in the 1994 study. The use of orthopaedic aids, assistive devices, ventilators and other respiratory aids had increased significantly, but 83% reported that they still had no home care or nursing services support. The 2014 polio population reported only minor subjective worsening of health and well-being compared with the 1994 cohort.

Conclusion: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Conclusions: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Plasma CHI3L1 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Potential Differential Diagnostic Biomarker
Author: Alessandro Bombaci*, Umberto Manera, Giovanni De Marco, Federico Casale, Paolina Salamone, Giuseppe Fuda, Giulia Marchese, Barbara Iazzolino, Laura Peotta, Cristina Moglia, Andrea Calvo and Adriano Chiò
Affiliation: “Rita Levi Montalcini” Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
Journal: NEW - PUT DETAILS IN CITATION FIELD
Citation: J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(6), 2367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12062367
Publication Year and Month: 2023 03

Abstract: Background: Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Biomarkers could help with defining patients’ prognoses and stratifications. Besides neurofilaments, chitinases are a promising family of possible biomarkers which correlate with neuroinflammatory status. We evaluated the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 in MNDs, MND mimics, and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods: We used a sandwich ELISA to quantify the CHI3L1 in plasma samples from 44 MND patients, 7 hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) patients, 9 MND mimics, and 19 HCs. We also collected a ALSFRSr scale, MRC scale, spirometry, mutational status, progression rate (PR), blood sampling, and neuropsychological evaluation.

Results: The plasma levels of the CHI3L1 were different among groups (p = 0.005). Particularly, the MND mimics showed higher CHI3L1 levels compared with the MND patients and HCs. The CHI3L1 levels did not differ among PMA, PLS, and ALS, and we did not find a correlation among the CHI3L1 levels and clinical scores, spirometry parameters, PR, and neuropsychological features. Of note, the red blood cell count and haemoglobin was correlated with the CHI3L1 levels (respectively, p < 0.001, r = 0.63; p = 0.022, and r = 0.52).

Conclusions: The CHI3L1 plasma levels were increased in the MND mimics cohort compared with MNDs group. The increase of CHI3L1 in neuroinflammatory processes could explain our findings. We confirmed that the CHI3L1 plasma levels did not allow for differentiation between ALS and HCs, nor were they correlated with neuropsychological impairment.

Keywords: biomarker; chitinases; cognitive impairment; differential diagnosis; early diagnosis; MND mimics; red blood cells

Conclusions: The measurement of the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 could be useful in the differential diagnosis between MNDs and MND mimics. This is an important issue, since the early diagnosis of an MND is a determinant in the early starting of neuroprotective therapy and in clinical trial recruitment.
Further multicentre and longitudinal studies on a larger patient cohort, testing alongside other fluid biomarkers, are needed to better explain the role of CHI3L1 in the diagnosis and prognosis of MNDs and, also, of MND mimics.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any): This article is helpful for any medical/neurologist trying to determine differential diagnosis of ALS vs post-polio.

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

There are currently 4 papers in this category.

Title: Plasma CHI3L1 in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Potential Differential Diagnostic Biomarker
Author: Alessandro Bombaci*, Umberto Manera, Giovanni De Marco, Federico Casale, Paolina Salamone, Giuseppe Fuda, Giulia Marchese, Barbara Iazzolino, Laura Peotta, Cristina Moglia, Andrea Calvo and Adriano Chiò
Affiliation: “Rita Levi Montalcini” Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
Journal: NEW - PUT DETAILS IN CITATION FIELD
Citation: J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(6), 2367; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12062367
Publication Year and Month: 2023 03

Abstract: Background: Motor neuron diseases (MNDs) are fatal neurodegenerative diseases. Biomarkers could help with defining patients’ prognoses and stratifications. Besides neurofilaments, chitinases are a promising family of possible biomarkers which correlate with neuroinflammatory status. We evaluated the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 in MNDs, MND mimics, and healthy controls (HCs).

Methods: We used a sandwich ELISA to quantify the CHI3L1 in plasma samples from 44 MND patients, 7 hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) patients, 9 MND mimics, and 19 HCs. We also collected a ALSFRSr scale, MRC scale, spirometry, mutational status, progression rate (PR), blood sampling, and neuropsychological evaluation.

Results: The plasma levels of the CHI3L1 were different among groups (p = 0.005). Particularly, the MND mimics showed higher CHI3L1 levels compared with the MND patients and HCs. The CHI3L1 levels did not differ among PMA, PLS, and ALS, and we did not find a correlation among the CHI3L1 levels and clinical scores, spirometry parameters, PR, and neuropsychological features. Of note, the red blood cell count and haemoglobin was correlated with the CHI3L1 levels (respectively, p < 0.001, r = 0.63; p = 0.022, and r = 0.52).

Conclusions: The CHI3L1 plasma levels were increased in the MND mimics cohort compared with MNDs group. The increase of CHI3L1 in neuroinflammatory processes could explain our findings. We confirmed that the CHI3L1 plasma levels did not allow for differentiation between ALS and HCs, nor were they correlated with neuropsychological impairment.

Keywords: biomarker; chitinases; cognitive impairment; differential diagnosis; early diagnosis; MND mimics; red blood cells

Conclusions: The measurement of the plasmatic levels of CHI3L1 could be useful in the differential diagnosis between MNDs and MND mimics. This is an important issue, since the early diagnosis of an MND is a determinant in the early starting of neuroprotective therapy and in clinical trial recruitment.
Further multicentre and longitudinal studies on a larger patient cohort, testing alongside other fluid biomarkers, are needed to better explain the role of CHI3L1 in the diagnosis and prognosis of MNDs and, also, of MND mimics.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any): This article is helpful for any medical/neurologist trying to determine differential diagnosis of ALS vs post-polio.

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Postpolio Syndrome: A Review of Lived Experiences of Patients
Author: Oluwaseyi Jacob Oluwasanmi, Devaunna Andrene Mckenzie, Idowu Oluwasegun Adewole, Christian O Aluka, James Iyasse, Esther Olunu, and Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya1
Affiliation: Department of Microbiology, All Saints University School of Medicine, Commonwealth of Dominica, Roseau, Dominica
1Department of Anatomical Sciences, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis
Address for correspondence: Dr. Adegbenro Omotuyi Fakoya, University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Basseterre, St. Kitts and Nevis. E-mail: [email protected]
Journal: International Journal of Applied & Basic Medical Research
Citation: 9(3), 129–134. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijabmr.IJABMR_333_18
Publication Year and Month: 2019 07

Abstract: Postpolio syndrome (PPS) refers to a group of conditions that are present in patients, years after recovery from initial acute paralytic poliomyelitis. About 15%–80% of 20 million polio survivors worldwide will experience exacerbation of symptoms which typically appear 15–30 years after the resolution of initial poliomyelitis. Symptoms include new muscle weakness, fatigue, myalgia, joint pain, dysphagia, and difficulty breathing. Other reported symptoms include cold intolerance, sleep disorder, dysphonia, loss of stamina, musculoskeletal deformities, cardiovascular disorders, psychosocial problems, and restless legs syndrome. These symptoms are attributed to the superimposed neuronal loss of aging with inflammatory mechanisms, but without any convincing evidence of viral reactivation. Risk factors include female gender, respiratory symptoms, normal aging, permanent disability caused by motor neuron damage, muscle overuse and disuse, aging, and immunologic mechanisms. Hypothyroidism-induced myopathy and fibromyalgia are a differential diagnosis for PPS, and exclusion diagnosis is required as confirmatory criteria for PPS. The symptoms of PPS presented determine the course of management.

Keywords: Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, poliomyelitis, postpolio syndrome

Conclusions: PPS is a sequela of acute poliomyelitis which occurs decades after resolution of the initial paralytic or nonparalytic polio. Fatigue, muscle weakness, myalgia, and joint pain are the major symptoms of PPS. Diagnosis of PPS is made based on the exclusion of other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. The quality of life of patients with PPS is significantly affected by the reoccurrence of the constellations of symptoms they experience. Proper assessment and treatment should be performed to prevent severe impairment of function in patients.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Diagnosing Post-Polio Syndrome in the Elderly, a Case Report
Author: Amole, M. & Khouzam-Skelton, N.
Affiliation: Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
Journal: Geriatrics
Citation: 2(2), 14; doi:10.3390/geriatrics2020014
Publication Year and Month: 2017 02

Abstract: Poliomyelitis is a disorder of the nervous system caused by an enterovirus. There are many survivors who, years later, develop a little-understood condition called Post-polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome is a group of delayed sequalae of polio infection that can cause paralysis and bulbar symptoms in patients with a history of polio infection who have had a prolonged symptom-free period, often greater than two decades. Diagnosis of post-polio syndrome is difficult in the geriatric population because many of the symptoms overlap with other disease processes affecting older individuals. An extensive workup is necessary to exclude more concerning etiologies. Furthermore, several symptoms can be attributed to normal ageing. We present the case of an elderly patient with a history of poliomyelitis and multiple comorbidities who presented with complaints of weakness and fatigue.

Conclusions: Post-polio syndrome is an interesting disorder characterized by new neuromuscular deficits that present years after the resolution of a polio infection. There are several diagnostic criteria, but one of the most important is the exclusion of other possible diagnoses. Post-polio syndrome diagnosis is even more difficult in the elderly population due to the presence of multiple comorbid conditions. Extensive testing may be necessary for an appropriate diagnosis in this population.

Outcome of Research: Not applicable

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

Title: Health and Social Considerations in Norwegian Polio Survivors: A 20-Year Follow-up Study
Author: Festvag L, Schanke A-K, Gilhus NE, et al.
Affiliation: Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital
University of Oslo
University of Bergen; Haukelund University Hospital, Bergen
Journal: Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
Citation: J Rehabil Med. 2016;48(8):688-695
Publication Year and Month: 2016 10

Abstract: Objective: To explore the physical and social situation of the Norwegian polio population in 2014, and to compare the status of this population in 2014 with the results of a similar survey carried out 20 years previously, in 1994.

Design: The study was based on a questionnaire covering demographics, polio history, and current medical, psychological and social conditions.

Subjects: The questionnaire was prepared in cooperation with the National Society of Polio Survivors and others with known polio (n = 1,968). A total of 1,408 persons responded (72%), mean age 70 years (range 28–98 years).

Results: The most frequent health problems reported were muscle and joint pain, cold intolerance and insomnia. New muscle weakness and loss of muscle volume were reported more frequently in 2014 than in the 1994 study. The use of orthopaedic aids, assistive devices, ventilators and other respiratory aids had increased significantly, but 83% reported that they still had no home care or nursing services support. The 2014 polio population reported only minor subjective worsening of health and well-being compared with the 1994 cohort.

Conclusion: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Conclusions: The present study indicates that the elderly polio population are experiencing new muscle weakness and increasing health problems, but that the deterioration occurs slowly and with fewer consequences for the subjective experience of general health and well-being, indicating that the patients are adapting to their life situation. However, subgroups of the elderly polio population are in need of special care.

Outcome of Research: More research required

Availability of Paper: The full text of this paper has been generously made available by the publisher.

Comments (if any):

Link to Paper (if available): Click here to view full text or to download

There are currently 4 papers in this category.