Chapter 26, Problem 7MC

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

Poliomyelitis or polio is caused by the degeneration of motor neurons, which results in the paralysis of muscles. The major causative organisms include the polioviruses, the family ofpicornavirus. Thesesingle-stranded RNA (ribonucleicacid) viruses are endemic andmore prevalent in areas with poor sanitation. Pathogenesis includes the entry of poliovirus via the fecal-oral route, followed by invading the bloodstream. People with a healthy immune system have the capability of clearing these pathogenic viruses, unlike others which are more disease prone. Under extreme conditions, the polioviruses bind to the motor neuron receptors resulting in muscle degeneration and paralysis.