Flaccid paralysis

Flaccid paralysis is a clinical manifestation characterized by weakness or paralysis and reduced muscle tone without other obvious cause (e.g., trauma).^[1]

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Causes

Polio

The term acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) is often used to describe a sudden onset, as might be found with polio.

AFP is the most common sign of acute polio, and used for surveillance during polio outbreaks. AFP is also associated with a number of other pathogenic agents including enteroviruses, echoviruses, and adenoviruses, among others.^[2]

Botulism

The Clostridium botulinum bacteria are the cause of botulism. Vegetative cells of C. botulinum may be injested. Introduction of the bacteria may also occur via endospores in a wound. When the bacteria is in vivo they induce flaccid paralysis. This happens because C. botulinum produces a toxin which blocks the release of acetylcholine. When this occurs, the muscles are unable to contract.^[3]

Other

Flaccid paralysis can be associated with a lower motor neurone lesion. This is in contrast to a upper motor neurone lesion, which often presents with spastic paralysis. Included in AFP,s list are Poliomyelitis, Transverse myelitis,Guillain-Barré syndrome, enteroviral encephalopathy^[4], traumatic neuritis etc. An AFP Surveillance programme is conducted to increase case yield of poliomyelitis. This includes collection of 2 stool samples within 14 days of onset of paralysis and identification of virus. and control of the outbreak and strenghthening immunisation in that area.

References

See also

• flaccid