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Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)
Overview
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system, particularly the spinal cord. It is a type of neurological disorder that causes weakness and paralysis in one or more limbs, typically in children.
AFM was first recognized in the United States in 2014 and has since been reported in other countries as well. The cause of AFM is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to viral infections, including enteroviruses and West Nile virus.
The symptoms of AFM typically include sudden onset of limb weakness or paralysis, along with other symptoms such as fever, headache, neck pain, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. These symptoms can progress rapidly and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
Diagnosis of AFM is based on a combination of clinical symptoms and diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord, and testing for viral infections. Treatment for AFM is mainly supportive and includes physical therapy, rehabilitation, and other therapies to manage symptoms.
Prevention of AFM is focused on measures to prevent viral infections, including good hygiene practices such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Vaccines are available for some viral infections that are associated with AFM, such as the poliovirus vaccine. However, there is currently no specific vaccine or treatment for AFM itself.
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM)
Overview
Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system, particularly the spinal cord. It is a type of neurological disorder that causes weakness and paralysis in one or more limbs, typically in children.
AFM was first recognized in the United States in 2014 and has since been reported in other countries as well. The cause of AFM is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be related to viral infections, including enteroviruses and West Nile virus.
The symptoms of AFM typically include sudden onset of limb weakness or paralysis, along with other symptoms such as fever, headache, neck pain, and difficulty swallowing or speaking. These symptoms can progress rapidly and can be life-threatening in severe cases.
Diagnosis of AFM is based on a combination of clinical symptoms and diagnostic tests such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord, and testing for viral infections. Treatment for AFM is mainly supportive and includes physical therapy, rehabilitation, and other therapies to manage symptoms.
Prevention of AFM is focused on measures to prevent viral infections, including good hygiene practices such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick. Vaccines are available for some viral infections that are associated with AFM, such as the poliovirus vaccine. However, there is currently no specific vaccine or treatment for AFM itself.