Make the Dx: Solution to 'A viral appetizer'
Key Takeaways
Can you make the diagnosis? Click here to review the case and check your answer below.
This patient had acute flaccid myelitis (AFM), which affects the gray matter of the spinal cord, and weakens muscles and reflexes. Currently, the CDC is exploring this rare condition. Some investigators suspect that enteroviruses may be the cause, with more than 90% of affected patients experiencing mild respiratory illness or fever prior to the onset of AFM symptoms.
AFM is difficult to diagnose and can be confused with transverse myelitis external icon or Guillain-Barre syndrome. No specific treatment exists, with rehabilitation recommended in some.
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