POLIOMYELOENCEPHALITIS Meaning and
Definition
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Poliomyeloencephalitis is a medical term referring to an acute infection and inflammation of the gray matter of the spinal cord and brain, commonly caused by the poliovirus. It is characterized by the simultaneous inflammation and destruction of the central nervous system, particularly the neurons within the spinal cord, brainstem, and cerebral cortex.
The disease initially presents with flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, sore throat, and muscle stiffness. As the infection progresses, it can lead to more severe symptoms, including muscle weakness or paralysis, particularly in the limbs. Poliomyeloencephalitis affects the motor control centers responsible for movement, resulting in the inability to not only move voluntarily but also regulate reflexes.
Poliomyeloencephalitis is commonly associated with poliomyelitis, or polio, although it may also be caused by other viral or bacterial agents. Historically, polio was a widespread and devastating disease, resulting in long-term paralysis or even death. However, vaccination efforts have significantly reduced the incidence of poliomyeloencephalitis cases globally.
Treatment for poliomyeloencephalitis primarily involves supportive care, focusing on relieving symptoms and maintaining fluid balance. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are crucial in the long-term management of patients, helping to regain strength and improve functionality.
In summary, poliomyeloencephalitis is an infectious and inflammatory condition affecting the central nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.
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Infantile cerebrospinal paralysis, Heine-Medin disease, inflammation of the gray matter of both brain and spinal cord.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for POLIOMYELOENCEPHALITIS
Etymology of POLIOMYELOENCEPHALITIS
The word "poliomyeloencephalitis" can be broken down into its constituent parts to understand its etymology:
1. "Poliomyelo-" comes from the Greek words "polios" (gray) and "myelos" (marrow/spinal cord), referring to the gray matter of the spinal cord.
2. "-Encephali-" is derived from the Greek word "enkephalos" (within the head/brain).
3. "-Itis" is a suffix indicating inflammation.
Combining these parts, "poliomyeloencephalitis" refers to the inflammation of both the gray matter of the spinal cord (poliomyelo) and the brain (encephalitis).
