Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) Symptoms, Treatment, Recovery Times & Vaccine

  https://www.emedicinehealth.com/acute_flaccid_myelitis_afm/article_em.htm

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare disease that damages the spinal cord. […] Symptoms and signs of AFM can include sudden (acute) weakness in the arms or legs, loss of muscle tone, decreased reflexes, and weakness of the facial muscles. […] Symptoms of AFM include sudden (acute) weakness in the arm(s) or leg(s), along with loss of muscle tone and decreased or absent reflexes. […] In some cases, AFM can affect the nerves controlling the head and neck, causing facial weakness, drooping of the eyelids, and difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the eyes. […] The extent of recovery varies. Although some people may make a full recovery, most have continued muscle weakness even after a year.

• #2 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Rady Children’s Hospital

  https://www.rchsd.org/health-article/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare condition that affects the spinal cord. It comes on suddenly and makes muscles weak and floppy. It looks similar to polio, so it is sometimes called a polio-like illness. It is most commonly seen in children around age 6. […] A child with AFM usually has sudden weakness in the arms and legs. Other signs of acute flaccid myelitis include: arm, leg, or neck pain, drooping eyelids, trouble moving the eyes, drooping mouth, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, trouble breathing. […] If you or your child have any of these symptoms, get medical care right away.

• #3 Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Children

  https://phoenixchildrens.staywellsolutionsonline.com/Library/Encyclopedia/160,242

  AFM is a rare condition that affects the nervous system. It damages the spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness and reflex problems. Its symptoms start suddenly and may cause paralysis in the arms or legs. In some cases, AFM can be life-threatening if it affects the muscles that control breathing or swallowing. […] The symptoms of AFM can vary from child to child. They can range from mild to severe. They often start suddenly within a week or so after recovering from a flu or cold-like illness. Symptoms of AFM may include: Sudden weakness, often in an arm or leg, Poor muscle tone and reflexes, Pain in the arms, legs, neck, or back, Weakness in the face that can cause problems swallowing, breathing, or speaking, Trouble moving the eyes or droopy eyelids, Problems controlling the bladder or bowel.

• #4 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20493046

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the spinal cord. It can cause sudden weakness in the arms or legs, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes. The condition mainly affects young children. […] If you or your child develops symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. Symptoms can progress rapidly. Hospitalization is needed and sometimes a ventilator is required for breathing support. […] The most common signs and symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis include: Sudden arm or leg weakness, Sudden loss of muscle tone, Sudden loss of reflexes. […] Other possible signs and symptoms include: Difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids, Facial droop or weakness, Difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech, Pain in the arms, legs, neck or back.

• #5 Signs and Symptoms of Acute Flaccid Myelitis | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] The most severe symptoms of AFM are: Respiratory failure (when the muscles involved with breathing become weak and require machines to help patients breathe). […] Most people will have sudden onset of: AFM symptoms: sudden arm or leg weakness. […] Some people will also have: AFM symptoms: difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids. […] AFM symptoms: facial droop or weakness. […] AFM symptoms: difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. […] AFM symptoms: pain in arms or legs. […] AFM symptoms: Pain in neck or back. […] In uncommon cases, people may also have numbness or tingling in arms or legs.

• #6 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious neurological condition that primarily affects the spinal cord, leading to sudden muscle weakness and loss of reflexes. Most commonly seen in children, AFM can result in varying degrees of paralysis, resembling symptoms similar to those of polio. […] AFM clinically presents with acute asymmetric lower motor neuron paralysis with spared sensation. The classic symptoms of AFM comprise muscle weakness in the arms and/or legs, decreased or loss of muscle tone, and decreased or absent reflexes. In severe cases, respiratory insufficiency due to paralysis of respiratory muscles requires intubation and mechanical ventilation. […] Symptoms of AFM include muscle weakness, loss or decreased muscle tone, hyporeflexia, respiratory failure, and oculomotor, facial, and/or bulbar muscle weakness. Muscle weakness is prone to affect proximal muscles of the upper extremities and be asymmetric with differences up to 2 or more scores by the Medical Research Council (MRC) for muscle strength scale. The severity of paresis varies and can be severe enough to cause respiratory failure.

• #7 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – MD Searchlight

  https://mdsearchlight.com/neurology/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) usually starts with signs like fever and breathing problems. Some people also experience stomach issues. Generally, these initial symptoms go away before the development of neurological problems like weakness or loss of muscle tone. These neurological signs often come with additional symptoms like stiffness in the neck, headaches, repeated fevers, and pain in the lower back or affected limbs. AFM tends to worsen quickly over a span of hours or days.

• #8 Acute flaccid myelitis | About the Disease | GARD

  https://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/diseases/13142/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a condition that affects the spinal cord leading to muscle weakness and loss of reflexes. Most people who develop AFM have had a viral illness with flu-like symptoms one to four weeks before symptoms of AFM. Symptoms of AFM include sudden onset (acute) of weakness in the arm(s) or leg(s), loss of muscle tone, and decreased or absent reflexes. Other symptoms may include pain, facial weakness, and difficulty swallowing, speaking, or moving the eyes. It is not clear why some people develop AFM and others do not. Diagnosis is based on the symptoms, a clinical exam, an MRI of the spine, and other laboratory testing. Most people with AFM continue to have muscle weakness for months to years. Sometimes the muscles involved with breathing become weakened, and ventilator support is necessary to help with breathing. […] Symptoms of this disease may start to appear at a variety of ages. […] Symptoms may start to appear at a variety of ages.

• #9 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM is a neurological condition characterized by a rapid onset of flaccid muscle weakness, with associated abnormalities on the radiological imaging of the spinal cord (MRI). This disease predominantly affects the grey matter of the spinal cord in children and is usually preceded by a febrile illness. It has been described as a polio-like condition. […] Most of the individuals affected by AFM will have a fever and/or respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat) around 3 days to 1 week before the onset of muscle weakness. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported but are less common. In many cases, other members of the household are also affected by febrile illness. […] Shortly afterward, there is a rapid onset of flaccid weakness that progresses over hours. The pattern and extent of the paralysis are widely variable between patients. It usually begins in one limb and then spreads, without a particular order, although there seems to be a predilection for upper extremities. It can affect from just one to all four limbs, as well as facial, oropharyngeal, neck, and breathing muscles. It means that it can affect the movement of the limbs as well as the ability to breathe, swallow, or move their eyes normally. Other possible symptoms include autonomic instability, meaning problems with the heart rate and blood pressure, and bladder/ bowel dysfunction.

• #10 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – Child Neurology Foundation

  https://www.childneurologyfoundation.org/disorder/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a disease that affects the spinal cord and brainstem. It causes weakness in one or more limbs. […] AFM occurs after children recover from a fever and respiratory illness. Symptoms of AFM begin one to ten days after the start of the viral illness. Respiratory symptoms typically improve before symptoms of AFM appear. AFM may start with neck stiffness and headache. […] AFM is characterized by subacute-onset weakness affecting one or more arms or legs. Subacute-onset means it occurs over a few hours to a day. This usually happens during or after a respiratory infection (a cold). That infection is most commonly caused by a virus called enterovirus D68. AFM may also affect muscles in the head and neck. […] Symptoms of AFM include: AFM causes mild to severe weakness in at least one limb. AFM more commonly affects the arms than the legs. It typically affects the part closer to the body (proximal) more than the part farther from the body (distal). Children may experience muscle pain in the affected limb(s).

• #11 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

  https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a polio-like illness that affects the nerve cells (motor neurons) in the gray matter of the spinal cord. It is thought to be due to a viral infection. […] Children with AFM have acute (rapid) onset of flaccid (floppy) paralysis, usually in an arm or leg. They may also have trouble moving their face or trouble swallowing. This weakness may progress to weakness of the muscles that control breathing, so seeking care for a child who is developing weakness is important. […] AFM symptoms include: Sudden arm or leg weakness, Difficulty swallowing, Slurred speech, Facial weakness or drooping, Loss of or weakened reflexes, Headache, Neck or back pain, Bowel/bladder changes, Respiratory symptoms (difficulty breathing). […] The outcome for children with AFM is variable. While most reports suggest that patients regain some strength over time, many do not recover full function: the most involved extremity (arm/leg) is generally the least likely to recover.

• #12 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Signs & Symptoms | SRNA

  https://wearesrna.org/living-with-myelitis/disease-information/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/

  Most of those diagnosed with AFM report having a respiratory or gastrointestinal illness before the onset of weakness. The predominant presentation is a rapid onset of weakness within hours to a few days that may affect the limbs, face, and the muscles that control breathing and/or swallowing. […] The weakness may rapidly progress from limb weakness to more severe symptoms, including respiratory failure, so hospitalization for observation is recommended even with mild symptoms. Those with AFM may not be able to breathe, swallow, or move their eyes normally. Weakness varies greatly, ranging from mild to very severe. AFM may result in weakness, partial paralysis, or total paralysis of just one limb or all limbs. […] The pattern of paralysis and how individuals present are widely variable. Weakness most often occurs in proximal muscles, meaning the muscles closest to the center of the body. Pain in the neck, back, or limb may be an early symptom. Autonomic instability, such as issues with heart rate, blood pressure or temperature regulation, may occur as well. Sensation and bowel and bladder function are generally spared in children with AFM. Some individuals, those more severely affected, may have inflammation in both the white and grey matter of the spinal cord (upper and lower motor neuron) and may experience impaired sensation and/or bowel and bladder dysfunction.

• #13 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious neurological condition that primarily affects the spinal cord, leading to sudden muscle weakness and loss of reflexes. Most commonly seen in children, AFM can result in varying degrees of paralysis, resembling symptoms similar to those of polio. […] AFM clinically presents with acute asymmetric lower motor neuron paralysis with spared sensation. The classic symptoms of AFM comprise muscle weakness in the arms and/or legs, decreased or loss of muscle tone, and decreased or absent reflexes. In severe cases, respiratory insufficiency due to paralysis of respiratory muscles requires intubation and mechanical ventilation. […] Symptoms of AFM include muscle weakness, loss or decreased muscle tone, hyporeflexia, respiratory failure, and oculomotor, facial, and/or bulbar muscle weakness. Muscle weakness is prone to affect proximal muscles of the upper extremities and be asymmetric with differences up to 2 or more scores by the Medical Research Council (MRC) for muscle strength scale. The severity of paresis varies and can be severe enough to cause respiratory failure.

• #14 Acute Flaccid Myelitis | PM&R KnowledgeNow

  https://now.aapmr.org/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) is a rapidly progressive immune and infectious mediated disease process that causes flaccid weakness of one or more limbs. It is further characterized by specific gray-matter abnormalities on MRI and probable pleocytosis (WBC 5 cells/mm3) in CSF. […] Clinical presentation includes rapidly progressive flaccid limb weakness which is preceded by symptoms of viral illness. Weakness often occurs over a few hours to a few days. Upper extremities are involved more often than lower extremities, and weakness is usually asymmetric. Lower limb involvement was more common among AFM patients in 2019 and 2020, 74% and 81% respectively compared to 44% in 2018. Variable cranial nerve involvement resulting in dysphagia, dysarthria, facial weakness, dysphonia, and ophthalmoplegia. There can be absent deep tendon reflexes. Bowel and bladder dysfunction may be present. A mix of upper motor neuron signs and lower motor neuron signs may be present.

• #15 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM is a neurological condition characterized by a rapid onset of flaccid muscle weakness, with associated abnormalities on the radiological imaging of the spinal cord (MRI). This disease predominantly affects the grey matter of the spinal cord in children and is usually preceded by a febrile illness. It has been described as a polio-like condition. […] Most of the individuals affected by AFM will have a fever and/or respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat) around 3 days to 1 week before the onset of muscle weakness. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported but are less common. In many cases, other members of the household are also affected by febrile illness. […] Shortly afterward, there is a rapid onset of flaccid weakness that progresses over hours. The pattern and extent of the paralysis are widely variable between patients. It usually begins in one limb and then spreads, without a particular order, although there seems to be a predilection for upper extremities. It can affect from just one to all four limbs, as well as facial, oropharyngeal, neck, and breathing muscles. It means that it can affect the movement of the limbs as well as the ability to breathe, swallow, or move their eyes normally. Other possible symptoms include autonomic instability, meaning problems with the heart rate and blood pressure, and bladder/ bowel dysfunction.

• #16 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20493046

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the spinal cord. It can cause sudden weakness in the arms or legs, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes. The condition mainly affects young children. […] If you or your child develops symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. Symptoms can progress rapidly. Hospitalization is needed and sometimes a ventilator is required for breathing support. […] The most common signs and symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis include: Sudden arm or leg weakness, Sudden loss of muscle tone, Sudden loss of reflexes. […] Other possible signs and symptoms include: Difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids, Facial droop or weakness, Difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech, Pain in the arms, legs, neck or back.

• #17 Acute Flaccid Myelitis: MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/acuteflaccidmyelitis.html

  Most people with AFM will suddenly have: […] Arm or leg weakness […] A loss of muscle tone and reflexes […] Some people also have other symptoms, including: […] Facial drooping/weakness […] Trouble moving the eyes […] Drooping eyelids […] Trouble swallowing […] Slurred speech […] Pain in the arms, legs, back, or neck […] Sometimes AFM can weaken the muscles that you need for breathing. This can lead to respiratory failure, which is very serious. If you get respiratory failure, you may need to use a ventilator (breathing machine) to help you breathe. […] If you or your child develops any of these symptoms, get medical care right away.

• #18 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM): What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17991-acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare neurological condition that causes your muscles and reflexes to become weak. It often affects your upper limbs and can affect the muscles you need to breathe as well. Because of this, its important to seek medical care as soon as possible if you or your child develop symptoms. […] The symptoms come on suddenly and can also affect your ability to breathe. […] Symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis include the sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, loss of reflexes (areflexia), and loss of coordination and balance. These symptoms develop over a few hours or days. […] Sometimes, AFM can affect the muscles you need to breathe. This can lead to respiratory failure, which is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. […] If you or your child develop any symptoms of AFM, seek medical care right away. […] If you or your child have sudden muscle weakness in one or more limbs, seek medical care as soon as possible. AFM can progress quickly and lead to issues with breathing.

• #19 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – Child Neurology Foundation

  https://www.childneurologyfoundation.org/disorder/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  AFM affects the spinal cord and a part of the brain called the brainstem. Nerves that control the muscles in the body run through the spinal cord. It is thought that inflammation injures these nerves. In turn, this causes weakness in the body. […] About 30% of children with AFM will have damage to the brainstem. […] Children will either have diminished or absent reflexes. This is caused by damage to the spinal cord. […] These symptoms are caused by damage to the spinal cord. […] Most children will have lasting disabilities. They may regain some function in the affected limbs. Symptoms related to injury to the brainstem are more likely to resolve than limb weakness. Nerve transfer surgery may benefit some children. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy are critical.

• #20 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Boston Children’s Hospital

  https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a condition that affects the nervous system, usually in young children. AFM affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord or brainstem and can progress rapidly. The most common symptoms are the sudden onset of weakness in the arms and legs. In rare cases, the loss of muscle tone and reflexes can lead to complete paralysis in one or more limbs. If you suspect your child has AFM, contact your doctor. […] Acute flaccid myelitis causes weakening of the muscles and the body’s reflexes. Symptoms may include: Sudden weakness in the arms and legs, Sudden loss of muscle tone and reflexes, Neck, back, arm, or leg pain, Weakness or drooping in the face or eyelids, Difficulty swallowing, moving the eyes, or urinating, Slurred speech, Numbness or tingling (less common). In some cases, the symptoms are serious, such as weakness in muscles involved in breathing. This may lead to respiratory failure (requiring help from a machine to breathe). […] If your child develops any AFM symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor right away. AFM can have serious long-term health effects and requires immediate medical attention.

• #21 Signs and Symptoms of Acute Flaccid Myelitis | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] The most severe symptoms of AFM are: Respiratory failure (when the muscles involved with breathing become weak and require machines to help patients breathe). […] Most people will have sudden onset of: AFM symptoms: sudden arm or leg weakness. […] Some people will also have: AFM symptoms: difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids. […] AFM symptoms: facial droop or weakness. […] AFM symptoms: difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. […] AFM symptoms: pain in arms or legs. […] AFM symptoms: Pain in neck or back. […] In uncommon cases, people may also have numbness or tingling in arms or legs.

• #22 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

  https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/conditions/acute_flaccid_myelitis/

  Acute flaccid myelitis is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system. It was first discovered in 2014. Acute Flaccid Myelitis mostly occurs in young children and targets the gray matter in the spinal cord, making muscles and reflexes in one or more limbs weak. This weakness happens quickly, often affects one side of the body more than the other and can lead to paralysis. […] Acute Flaccid Myelitis symptoms appear suddenly, often within a few hours to days. These include: Weakness in one or more arms or legs, Loss of muscle tone, Weakened or absent reflexes. […] One to two weeks before developing these symptoms, most patients had a mild respiratory illness with a runny nose, cough, or fever. Other symptoms can include: Pain in arms or legs, neck, or back, Facial drooping or weakness, Drooping eyelids, Difficulty swallowing or slurred speech.

• #23 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM): What parents need to know – Boston Children’s Answers

  https://answers.childrenshospital.org/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  AFM is a condition that affects the spinal cord or parts of the brainstem, mostly in children. It can cause sudden weakness and paralysis, ranging from weakness of the facial muscles, to limb weakness, to weakened breathing. It often starts during or just after a mild respiratory illness or fever. […] The early signs of AFM include inability to move one of the limbs or the face, or pain in the affected limb, neck or back. If your child has any of these symptoms, it makes sense to have them checked out by their primary care physician. Although it’s a scary illness for parents to think about, it’s important to remember that it’s very rare.

• #24 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – Child Neurology Foundation

  https://www.childneurologyfoundation.org/disorder/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a disease that affects the spinal cord and brainstem. It causes weakness in one or more limbs. […] AFM occurs after children recover from a fever and respiratory illness. Symptoms of AFM begin one to ten days after the start of the viral illness. Respiratory symptoms typically improve before symptoms of AFM appear. AFM may start with neck stiffness and headache. […] AFM is characterized by subacute-onset weakness affecting one or more arms or legs. Subacute-onset means it occurs over a few hours to a day. This usually happens during or after a respiratory infection (a cold). That infection is most commonly caused by a virus called enterovirus D68. AFM may also affect muscles in the head and neck. […] Symptoms of AFM include: AFM causes mild to severe weakness in at least one limb. AFM more commonly affects the arms than the legs. It typically affects the part closer to the body (proximal) more than the part farther from the body (distal). Children may experience muscle pain in the affected limb(s).

• #25 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Boston Children’s Hospital

  https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a condition that affects the nervous system, usually in young children. AFM affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord or brainstem and can progress rapidly. The most common symptoms are the sudden onset of weakness in the arms and legs. In rare cases, the loss of muscle tone and reflexes can lead to complete paralysis in one or more limbs. If you suspect your child has AFM, contact your doctor. […] Acute flaccid myelitis causes weakening of the muscles and the body’s reflexes. Symptoms may include: Sudden weakness in the arms and legs, Sudden loss of muscle tone and reflexes, Neck, back, arm, or leg pain, Weakness or drooping in the face or eyelids, Difficulty swallowing, moving the eyes, or urinating, Slurred speech, Numbness or tingling (less common). In some cases, the symptoms are serious, such as weakness in muscles involved in breathing. This may lead to respiratory failure (requiring help from a machine to breathe). […] If your child develops any AFM symptoms, it’s important to contact your doctor right away. AFM can have serious long-term health effects and requires immediate medical attention.

• #26 Signs and Symptoms of Acute Flaccid Myelitis | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] The most severe symptoms of AFM are: Respiratory failure (when the muscles involved with breathing become weak and require machines to help patients breathe). […] Most people will have sudden onset of: AFM symptoms: sudden arm or leg weakness. […] Some people will also have: AFM symptoms: difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids. […] AFM symptoms: facial droop or weakness. […] AFM symptoms: difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. […] AFM symptoms: pain in arms or legs. […] AFM symptoms: Pain in neck or back. […] In uncommon cases, people may also have numbness or tingling in arms or legs.

• #27 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute | Condition | UT Southwestern Medical Center

  https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm/

  Other AFM symptoms include: Facial weakness or drooping, Weakness in eye muscles, causing drooping eyelids or difficulty moving the eyes, Difficulty swallowing or talking, Pain in the neck, back, arms, or legs. […] Signs and symptoms that occur more rarely but should raise concern are: Numbness or tingling, Stiffness in the neck, Inability to urinate. […] Other severe symptoms can occur: Respiratory failure due to weakness in muscles that help with breathing, Serious nervous system problems such as changes in body temperature or blood pressure, which can be life threatening. […] There is no specific treatment for AFM, and its long-term outcomes aren’t known. Some people completely recover, while others continue to have muscle weakness and symptoms for more than a year. Some therapies can help relieve symptoms and support recovery. […] Treatment options include: Anti-inflammatory therapies, Pain management, Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, Oxygen therapy, Speech-language therapy, Nerve transfer surgery.

• #28 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Signs & Symptoms | SRNA

  https://wearesrna.org/living-with-myelitis/disease-information/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/

  Most of those diagnosed with AFM report having a respiratory or gastrointestinal illness before the onset of weakness. The predominant presentation is a rapid onset of weakness within hours to a few days that may affect the limbs, face, and the muscles that control breathing and/or swallowing. […] The weakness may rapidly progress from limb weakness to more severe symptoms, including respiratory failure, so hospitalization for observation is recommended even with mild symptoms. Those with AFM may not be able to breathe, swallow, or move their eyes normally. Weakness varies greatly, ranging from mild to very severe. AFM may result in weakness, partial paralysis, or total paralysis of just one limb or all limbs. […] The pattern of paralysis and how individuals present are widely variable. Weakness most often occurs in proximal muscles, meaning the muscles closest to the center of the body. Pain in the neck, back, or limb may be an early symptom. Autonomic instability, such as issues with heart rate, blood pressure or temperature regulation, may occur as well. Sensation and bowel and bladder function are generally spared in children with AFM. Some individuals, those more severely affected, may have inflammation in both the white and grey matter of the spinal cord (upper and lower motor neuron) and may experience impaired sensation and/or bowel and bladder dysfunction.

• #29 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20493046

  Severe symptoms involve respiratory failure, due to the muscles involved in breathing becoming weak. It’s also possible to experience life-threatening body temperature changes and blood pressure instability. […] If you or your child has any of the signs or symptoms listed above, seek medical care as soon as possible. […] Muscle weakness caused by acute flaccid myelitis can continue for months to years.

• #30 Frequently Asked Questions | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/faq/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition that causes muscle weakness, sometimes leading to permanent paralysis. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] Seek medical care immediately if you or your child develop any of these symptoms: weakness or loss of muscle tone or reflexes in the arms or legs, facial droop or weakness, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids, difficulty with swallowing, or slurred speech. […] AFM can worsen rapidly and weaken the muscles used for breathing. The patient might need extra support (like a ventilator) to help them breathe.

• #31 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) – Epidemiology

  https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/epidemiology/epidemiology-fact-sheets/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious condition that affects the nervous system, specifically the spinal cord. Most patients experience sudden onset of limb (arm and leg) weakness. […] Most patients will have sudden onset of limb weakness and loss of muscle tone and reflexes. In addition, some patients will experience facial droop or weakness, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids, or difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. The most severe symptom of AFM is respiratory failure, which happens when the muscles involved with breathing become weak. This can require urgent ventilator (breathing machine) support.

• #32 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Kennedy Krieger Institute

  https://www.kennedykrieger.org/patient-care/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is characterized by the sudden onset of limb weakness and loss of muscle tone and reflexes. Some patients, in addition to the limb weakness, will experience: […] The most severe symptom of AFM is paralysis or respiratory failure that can happen when the muscles involved with breathing become weak. This can require ventilator support.

• #33 Acute flaccid myelitis | Great Ormond Street Hospital

  https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  In around 20 per cent of children, this muscle weakness affects the diaphragm, the curved muscle in the chest that rises and falls when breathing. This can affect breathing and may be serious enough to need support from a ventilator in intensive care. Other children may have neurological complications that affect automatic body functions (the autonomic system) such as controlling temperature and blood pressure. […] As acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a newly discovered disease, there isnt much data about the long term effects and outlook for those affected. From the cases that have been studied to date, AFM is life-threatening for a small number of children, particularly those whose breathing is affected. Otherwise, children do recover in time but many continue to have permanent muscle weakness in the worst affected limb. It may also be uncomfortable. A very small number of children recover completely from AFM with no lasting effects.

• #34 Signs and Symptoms of Acute Flaccid Myelitis | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/signs-symptoms/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] The most severe symptoms of AFM are: Respiratory failure (when the muscles involved with breathing become weak and require machines to help patients breathe). […] Most people will have sudden onset of: AFM symptoms: sudden arm or leg weakness. […] Some people will also have: AFM symptoms: difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids. […] AFM symptoms: facial droop or weakness. […] AFM symptoms: difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. […] AFM symptoms: pain in arms or legs. […] AFM symptoms: Pain in neck or back. […] In uncommon cases, people may also have numbness or tingling in arms or legs.

• #35 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Texas DSHS

  https://www.dshs.texas.gov/vaccine-preventable-diseases/vaccine-preventable-disease-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the nervous system, specifically the spinal cord, which can cause limb weakness and poor muscle response. […] Most patients will have sudden onset of limb weakness and loss of muscle tone and reflexes. Some patients, besides limb weakness, will experience: facial droop/weakness, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids, or difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. […] Severe symptoms of AFM can occur such as respiratory failure. This can happen when the muscles involved with breathing become weak. This can require urgent ventilator support (breathing machines). Life-threatening changes in body temperature and blood pressure instability can also occur.

• #36 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20493046

  Severe symptoms involve respiratory failure, due to the muscles involved in breathing becoming weak. It’s also possible to experience life-threatening body temperature changes and blood pressure instability. […] If you or your child has any of the signs or symptoms listed above, seek medical care as soon as possible. […] Muscle weakness caused by acute flaccid myelitis can continue for months to years.

• #37 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

  https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/conditions/acute_flaccid_myelitis/

  Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure, body temperature changes, and blood pressure instability, which can be life-threatening. […] Patients with Acute Flaccid Myelitis are cared for in the hospital where healthcare providers monitor their condition. Treatment focuses on reducing spinal cord inflammation, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. […] Some patients see improvements in muscle function over time. A few fully recover, often around 4 months after symptoms begin. However, some patients do not improve and remain weak or paralyzed.

• #38 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM is a neurological condition characterized by a rapid onset of flaccid muscle weakness, with associated abnormalities on the radiological imaging of the spinal cord (MRI). This disease predominantly affects the grey matter of the spinal cord in children and is usually preceded by a febrile illness. It has been described as a polio-like condition. […] Most of the individuals affected by AFM will have a fever and/or respiratory symptoms (cough, runny nose, sore throat) around 3 days to 1 week before the onset of muscle weakness. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported but are less common. In many cases, other members of the household are also affected by febrile illness. […] Shortly afterward, there is a rapid onset of flaccid weakness that progresses over hours. The pattern and extent of the paralysis are widely variable between patients. It usually begins in one limb and then spreads, without a particular order, although there seems to be a predilection for upper extremities. It can affect from just one to all four limbs, as well as facial, oropharyngeal, neck, and breathing muscles. It means that it can affect the movement of the limbs as well as the ability to breathe, swallow, or move their eyes normally. Other possible symptoms include autonomic instability, meaning problems with the heart rate and blood pressure, and bladder/ bowel dysfunction.

• #39 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Peter O’Donnell Jr. Brain Institute | Condition | UT Southwestern Medical Center

  https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm/

  Other AFM symptoms include: Facial weakness or drooping, Weakness in eye muscles, causing drooping eyelids or difficulty moving the eyes, Difficulty swallowing or talking, Pain in the neck, back, arms, or legs. […] Signs and symptoms that occur more rarely but should raise concern are: Numbness or tingling, Stiffness in the neck, Inability to urinate. […] Other severe symptoms can occur: Respiratory failure due to weakness in muscles that help with breathing, Serious nervous system problems such as changes in body temperature or blood pressure, which can be life threatening. […] There is no specific treatment for AFM, and its long-term outcomes aren’t known. Some people completely recover, while others continue to have muscle weakness and symptoms for more than a year. Some therapies can help relieve symptoms and support recovery. […] Treatment options include: Anti-inflammatory therapies, Pain management, Physical therapy, Occupational therapy, Oxygen therapy, Speech-language therapy, Nerve transfer surgery.

• #40 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  The onset of symptoms can be associated with meningism, headache, fever recurrence, pain in the affected limbs, or lower back pain. AFM typically progresses rapidly over a few hours or days. […] The prognosis of AFM varies widely from complete recovery of function to lethal outcomes among affected individuals. While some patients experience significant recovery, most have persistent and severe neurological deficits. Early and aggressive rehabilitation can improve outcomes, but the extent of recovery is often limited by the degree of initial neuronal damage.

• #41 Acute Flaccid Myelitis: A Modern-day Polio?

  https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/acute-flaccid-myelitis-a-modern-day-polio

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a recently described rare condition primarily affecting otherwise healthy children. It is characterized by muscle weakness and myelitis of the spinal cords anterior horn cells following a viral illness. […] Children with AFM typically present with acute onset of asymmetric flaccid paralysis, often rapidly progressing from normal strength to flaccid weakness with loss of reflexes within hours to a few days. A prodromal illness (typically febrile with respiratory symptoms) a few days prior to the onset of flaccid paralysis is common. […] Many children with AFM will demonstrate some improvement in function, but most will have persistent weakness for months to years. Unfortunately, there are no predictive factors to determine final functional status. Evidence suggests the long-term prognosis for AFM is worse than that for similar conditions such as transverse myelitis. […] Similar to polio, the anterior horn cells are affected in AFM, causing a lower motor neuron deficit. Muscle groups that fail to recover within six months rarely do recover, resulting in residual paralysis. However, some children have continued to improve for two years.

• #42 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  The onset of symptoms can be associated with meningism, headache, fever recurrence, pain in the affected limbs, or lower back pain. AFM typically progresses rapidly over a few hours or days. […] The prognosis of AFM varies widely from complete recovery of function to lethal outcomes among affected individuals. While some patients experience significant recovery, most have persistent and severe neurological deficits. Early and aggressive rehabilitation can improve outcomes, but the extent of recovery is often limited by the degree of initial neuronal damage.

• #43 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – MD Searchlight

  https://mdsearchlight.com/neurology/acute-flaccid-myelitis/

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) usually starts with signs like fever and breathing problems. Some people also experience stomach issues. Generally, these initial symptoms go away before the development of neurological problems like weakness or loss of muscle tone. These neurological signs often come with additional symptoms like stiffness in the neck, headaches, repeated fevers, and pain in the lower back or affected limbs. AFM tends to worsen quickly over a span of hours or days.

• #44 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM seems to be a monophasic disorder, but the grade of recovery is extremely variable. Unfortunately, only around 10% of patients recover completely. The most affected muscle may be the least likely to recover, especially proximal limb muscles. Residual weakness is followed by ongoing muscle atrophy and functional impairment of the extremities. Other muscles, like facial and respiratory muscles, appear to recover in a greater proportion, however, some affected individuals might develop the need for chronic ventilatory and feeding support. […] Physical, occupational and speech therapy should be started as early as possible, even during the intensive care unit, to begin the process of restoration of functionality and prevention of secondary complications that come with immobility.

• #45 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM seems to be a monophasic disorder, but the grade of recovery is extremely variable. Unfortunately, only around 10% of patients recover completely. The most affected muscle may be the least likely to recover, especially proximal limb muscles. Residual weakness is followed by ongoing muscle atrophy and functional impairment of the extremities. Other muscles, like facial and respiratory muscles, appear to recover in a greater proportion, however, some affected individuals might develop the need for chronic ventilatory and feeding support. […] Physical, occupational and speech therapy should be started as early as possible, even during the intensive care unit, to begin the process of restoration of functionality and prevention of secondary complications that come with immobility.

• #46 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  The onset of symptoms can be associated with meningism, headache, fever recurrence, pain in the affected limbs, or lower back pain. AFM typically progresses rapidly over a few hours or days. […] The prognosis of AFM varies widely from complete recovery of function to lethal outcomes among affected individuals. While some patients experience significant recovery, most have persistent and severe neurological deficits. Early and aggressive rehabilitation can improve outcomes, but the extent of recovery is often limited by the degree of initial neuronal damage.

• #47 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

  https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/conditions/acute_flaccid_myelitis/

  Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure, body temperature changes, and blood pressure instability, which can be life-threatening. […] Patients with Acute Flaccid Myelitis are cared for in the hospital where healthcare providers monitor their condition. Treatment focuses on reducing spinal cord inflammation, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. […] Some patients see improvements in muscle function over time. A few fully recover, often around 4 months after symptoms begin. However, some patients do not improve and remain weak or paralyzed.

• #48 Acute Flaccid Myelitis: A Modern-day Polio?

  https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/acute-flaccid-myelitis-a-modern-day-polio

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a recently described rare condition primarily affecting otherwise healthy children. It is characterized by muscle weakness and myelitis of the spinal cords anterior horn cells following a viral illness. […] Children with AFM typically present with acute onset of asymmetric flaccid paralysis, often rapidly progressing from normal strength to flaccid weakness with loss of reflexes within hours to a few days. A prodromal illness (typically febrile with respiratory symptoms) a few days prior to the onset of flaccid paralysis is common. […] Many children with AFM will demonstrate some improvement in function, but most will have persistent weakness for months to years. Unfortunately, there are no predictive factors to determine final functional status. Evidence suggests the long-term prognosis for AFM is worse than that for similar conditions such as transverse myelitis. […] Similar to polio, the anterior horn cells are affected in AFM, causing a lower motor neuron deficit. Muscle groups that fail to recover within six months rarely do recover, resulting in residual paralysis. However, some children have continued to improve for two years.

• #49 Acute Flaccid Myelitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

  https://www.healthline.com/health/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare neurological condition that can cause paralysis. The most common symptom of AFM is limb weakness or paralysis that comes on suddenly. […] When the symptoms of AFM develop, they can include: limb weakness or paralysis that comes on suddenly, loss of reflexes, pain in the limbs, neck, or back, difficulty with movement, facial weakness, which can cause drooping eyelids or difficulty moving the eyes, difficulty talking or swallowing. […] AFM can lead to permanent muscle weakness or paralysis. Although the outlook can vary by individual, generally speaking, a full recovery is uncommon. […] A small 2015 study involved a follow-up with 45 people who had experienced AFM. During an average follow-up of 9 months, 38% reported persistent limb weakness. […] Doctors will likely recommend physical therapy, occupational therapy, or both if you’ve had AFM. Physical therapy focuses on improving strength and flexibility, while occupational therapy helps you to learn ways to do daily activities.

• #50 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM seems to be a monophasic disorder, but the grade of recovery is extremely variable. Unfortunately, only around 10% of patients recover completely. The most affected muscle may be the least likely to recover, especially proximal limb muscles. Residual weakness is followed by ongoing muscle atrophy and functional impairment of the extremities. Other muscles, like facial and respiratory muscles, appear to recover in a greater proportion, however, some affected individuals might develop the need for chronic ventilatory and feeding support. […] Physical, occupational and speech therapy should be started as early as possible, even during the intensive care unit, to begin the process of restoration of functionality and prevention of secondary complications that come with immobility.

• #51 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20493060

  Acute flaccid myelitis can be hard to diagnose because it shares many of the same symptoms as other neurological diseases, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. […] Currently, there is no specific treatment for acute flaccid myelitis. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. […] If physical therapy is started during the initial phase of the illness, it might improve long-term recovery. […] Sometimes nerve and muscle transfer surgeries are done to improve limb function. […] If you have symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. […] When did you or your child first begin experiencing symptoms? […] Are the symptoms continuous or occasional? […] How severe are the symptoms? […] What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms? […] What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? […] Did you or your child have a viral infection in the past month?

• #52 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM seems to be a monophasic disorder, but the grade of recovery is extremely variable. Unfortunately, only around 10% of patients recover completely. The most affected muscle may be the least likely to recover, especially proximal limb muscles. Residual weakness is followed by ongoing muscle atrophy and functional impairment of the extremities. Other muscles, like facial and respiratory muscles, appear to recover in a greater proportion, however, some affected individuals might develop the need for chronic ventilatory and feeding support. […] Physical, occupational and speech therapy should be started as early as possible, even during the intensive care unit, to begin the process of restoration of functionality and prevention of secondary complications that come with immobility.

• #53 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Symptoms & causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20493046

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious condition that affects the spinal cord. It can cause sudden weakness in the arms or legs, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes. The condition mainly affects young children. […] If you or your child develops symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. Symptoms can progress rapidly. Hospitalization is needed and sometimes a ventilator is required for breathing support. […] The most common signs and symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis include: Sudden arm or leg weakness, Sudden loss of muscle tone, Sudden loss of reflexes. […] Other possible signs and symptoms include: Difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids, Facial droop or weakness, Difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech, Pain in the arms, legs, neck or back.

• #54 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM): What It Is, Symptoms & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17991-acute-flaccid-myelitis

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare neurological condition that causes your muscles and reflexes to become weak. It often affects your upper limbs and can affect the muscles you need to breathe as well. Because of this, its important to seek medical care as soon as possible if you or your child develop symptoms. […] The symptoms come on suddenly and can also affect your ability to breathe. […] Symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis include the sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, loss of reflexes (areflexia), and loss of coordination and balance. These symptoms develop over a few hours or days. […] Sometimes, AFM can affect the muscles you need to breathe. This can lead to respiratory failure, which is life-threatening and requires immediate treatment. […] If you or your child develop any symptoms of AFM, seek medical care right away. […] If you or your child have sudden muscle weakness in one or more limbs, seek medical care as soon as possible. AFM can progress quickly and lead to issues with breathing.

• #55 Frequently Asked Questions | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/faq/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition that causes muscle weakness, sometimes leading to permanent paralysis. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] Seek medical care immediately if you or your child develop any of these symptoms: weakness or loss of muscle tone or reflexes in the arms or legs, facial droop or weakness, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids, difficulty with swallowing, or slurred speech. […] AFM can worsen rapidly and weaken the muscles used for breathing. The patient might need extra support (like a ventilator) to help them breathe.

• #56 A Complete Guide to Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Children – Avisena Women’s & Children’s Specialist Hospital

  https://womenandchildren.avisena.com.my/health-articles/acute-flaccid-myelitis-recognizing-the-symptoms-and-seeking-early-treatment/

  Unfortunately, some patients may experience permanent damage to the spinal cord, leading to long-term disability. The extent of recovery is often determined by the degree of damage done during the acute phase of the illness. […] Early diagnosis of AFM is essential for better outcomes. Since the symptoms can mimic other conditions like Guillain-Barr Syndrome or even polio, healthcare professionals need to conduct a thorough evaluation. […] Parents and caregivers should be vigilant for any sudden onset of limb weakness in children, especially during viral outbreaks or seasons when enteroviruses are more common (late summer and early fall). Immediate medical attention is critical to initiating treatment and improving the chances of recovery.

• #57 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Nationwide Children’s Hospital

  https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  While the reason certain children develop AFM is still unclear, it typically occurs following a viral infection that causes the common cold (Enterovirus D68, Coxsackie Virus and others). […] There is no established medical treatment or medications to cure AFM. At first, patients are treated with supportive care including hospital admission, medications such as steroids and treatments that include plasmapheresis and/or IVIG. Physical therapy and occupational therapy is very important. Kids often spend weeks to months in therapy programs. […] If muscle movement does not come back a surgical procedure can be performed to help. These are called nerve transfers. A nerve transfer involves finding a healthy working nerve and connecting it to a non-working muscle. In time, the working nerve grows into the muscle and over time (9-12 months) movement can happen. This helps to rewire the nerves to give children better movement and strength in their limbs.

• #58 Frequently Asked Questions | Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/acute-flaccid-myelitis/faq/index.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition that causes muscle weakness, sometimes leading to permanent paralysis. […] Sudden onset of arm or leg weakness, loss of muscle tone, and loss of reflexes are the most common symptoms. […] Seek medical care immediately if you or your child develop any of these symptoms: weakness or loss of muscle tone or reflexes in the arms or legs, facial droop or weakness, difficulty moving the eyes, drooping eyelids, difficulty with swallowing, or slurred speech. […] AFM can worsen rapidly and weaken the muscles used for breathing. The patient might need extra support (like a ventilator) to help them breathe.

• #59 Acute Flaccid Myelitis: MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/acuteflaccidmyelitis.html

  Most people with AFM will suddenly have: […] Arm or leg weakness […] A loss of muscle tone and reflexes […] Some people also have other symptoms, including: […] Facial drooping/weakness […] Trouble moving the eyes […] Drooping eyelids […] Trouble swallowing […] Slurred speech […] Pain in the arms, legs, back, or neck […] Sometimes AFM can weaken the muscles that you need for breathing. This can lead to respiratory failure, which is very serious. If you get respiratory failure, you may need to use a ventilator (breathing machine) to help you breathe. […] If you or your child develops any of these symptoms, get medical care right away.

• #60 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth

  https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/acute-flaccid-myelitis.html

  Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare condition that affects the spinal cord. It comes on suddenly and makes muscles weak and floppy. It looks similar to polio, so it is sometimes called a polio-like illness. It is most commonly seen in children around age 6. […] A child with AFM usually has sudden weakness in the arms and legs. Other signs of acute flaccid myelitis include: arm, leg, or neck pain, drooping eyelids, trouble moving the eyes, drooping mouth, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, trouble breathing. If you or your child have any of these symptoms, get medical care right away.

• #61 Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Children

  https://phoenixchildrens.staywellsolutionsonline.com/Library/Encyclopedia/160,242

  Symptoms can worsen quickly and become life-threatening. So if your child has any of the symptoms above, get medical care right away. […] The main symptoms of AFM include sudden weakness in a limb and poor muscle tone and reflexes. […] AFM can cause lasting muscle weakness. Physical and occupational therapy can help.

• #62 A Complete Guide to Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Children – Avisena Women’s & Children’s Specialist Hospital

  https://womenandchildren.avisena.com.my/health-articles/acute-flaccid-myelitis-recognizing-the-symptoms-and-seeking-early-treatment/

  These symptoms can vary in severity, with some patients experiencing mild weakness and others developing complete paralysis. The sudden nature of the symptoms means its essential to seek medical attention immediately if you notice any signs of muscle weakness, especially in children. […] AFM often progresses quickly in children, and the resulting weakness can be more severe. For this reason, early diagnosis and intervention are critical. […] Recovery from AFM can be a long and challenging process. Acute flaccid myelitis recovery varies significantly from patient to patient, depending on the severity of the initial illness, how quickly treatment was administered, and the overall health of the individual. Some children recover fully, while others may be left with lasting weakness or paralysis.

• #63 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20493060

  Acute flaccid myelitis can be hard to diagnose because it shares many of the same symptoms as other neurological diseases, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. […] Currently, there is no specific treatment for acute flaccid myelitis. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. […] If physical therapy is started during the initial phase of the illness, it might improve long-term recovery. […] Sometimes nerve and muscle transfer surgeries are done to improve limb function. […] If you have symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. […] When did you or your child first begin experiencing symptoms? […] Are the symptoms continuous or occasional? […] How severe are the symptoms? […] What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms? […] What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? […] Did you or your child have a viral infection in the past month?

• #64 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Nationwide Children’s Hospital

  https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  While the reason certain children develop AFM is still unclear, it typically occurs following a viral infection that causes the common cold (Enterovirus D68, Coxsackie Virus and others). […] There is no established medical treatment or medications to cure AFM. At first, patients are treated with supportive care including hospital admission, medications such as steroids and treatments that include plasmapheresis and/or IVIG. Physical therapy and occupational therapy is very important. Kids often spend weeks to months in therapy programs. […] If muscle movement does not come back a surgical procedure can be performed to help. These are called nerve transfers. A nerve transfer involves finding a healthy working nerve and connecting it to a non-working muscle. In time, the working nerve grows into the muscle and over time (9-12 months) movement can happen. This helps to rewire the nerves to give children better movement and strength in their limbs.

• #65 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM)

  https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/conditions/acute_flaccid_myelitis/

  Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure, body temperature changes, and blood pressure instability, which can be life-threatening. […] Patients with Acute Flaccid Myelitis are cared for in the hospital where healthcare providers monitor their condition. Treatment focuses on reducing spinal cord inflammation, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. […] Some patients see improvements in muscle function over time. A few fully recover, often around 4 months after symptoms begin. However, some patients do not improve and remain weak or paralyzed.

• #66 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Nationwide Children’s Hospital

  https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  While the reason certain children develop AFM is still unclear, it typically occurs following a viral infection that causes the common cold (Enterovirus D68, Coxsackie Virus and others). […] There is no established medical treatment or medications to cure AFM. At first, patients are treated with supportive care including hospital admission, medications such as steroids and treatments that include plasmapheresis and/or IVIG. Physical therapy and occupational therapy is very important. Kids often spend weeks to months in therapy programs. […] If muscle movement does not come back a surgical procedure can be performed to help. These are called nerve transfers. A nerve transfer involves finding a healthy working nerve and connecting it to a non-working muscle. In time, the working nerve grows into the muscle and over time (9-12 months) movement can happen. This helps to rewire the nerves to give children better movement and strength in their limbs.

• #67 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20493060

  Acute flaccid myelitis can be hard to diagnose because it shares many of the same symptoms as other neurological diseases, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. […] Currently, there is no specific treatment for acute flaccid myelitis. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. […] If physical therapy is started during the initial phase of the illness, it might improve long-term recovery. […] Sometimes nerve and muscle transfer surgeries are done to improve limb function. […] If you have symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. […] When did you or your child first begin experiencing symptoms? […] Are the symptoms continuous or occasional? […] How severe are the symptoms? […] What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms? […] What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? […] Did you or your child have a viral infection in the past month?

• #68 About AFM | Acute Flaccid Myelitis Working Group

  https://acuteflaccidmyelitis.org/about-afm/

  AFM seems to be a monophasic disorder, but the grade of recovery is extremely variable. Unfortunately, only around 10% of patients recover completely. The most affected muscle may be the least likely to recover, especially proximal limb muscles. Residual weakness is followed by ongoing muscle atrophy and functional impairment of the extremities. Other muscles, like facial and respiratory muscles, appear to recover in a greater proportion, however, some affected individuals might develop the need for chronic ventilatory and feeding support. […] Physical, occupational and speech therapy should be started as early as possible, even during the intensive care unit, to begin the process of restoration of functionality and prevention of secondary complications that come with immobility.

• #69 Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) – Diagnosis & treatment – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20493060

  Acute flaccid myelitis can be hard to diagnose because it shares many of the same symptoms as other neurological diseases, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. […] Currently, there is no specific treatment for acute flaccid myelitis. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. […] If physical therapy is started during the initial phase of the illness, it might improve long-term recovery. […] Sometimes nerve and muscle transfer surgeries are done to improve limb function. […] If you have symptoms of acute flaccid myelitis, seek immediate medical care. […] When did you or your child first begin experiencing symptoms? […] Are the symptoms continuous or occasional? […] How severe are the symptoms? […] What, if anything, seems to improve the symptoms? […] What, if anything, appears to worsen the symptoms? […] Did you or your child have a viral infection in the past month?

• #70 Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) | Nationwide Children’s Hospital

  https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  While the reason certain children develop AFM is still unclear, it typically occurs following a viral infection that causes the common cold (Enterovirus D68, Coxsackie Virus and others). […] There is no established medical treatment or medications to cure AFM. At first, patients are treated with supportive care including hospital admission, medications such as steroids and treatments that include plasmapheresis and/or IVIG. Physical therapy and occupational therapy is very important. Kids often spend weeks to months in therapy programs. […] If muscle movement does not come back a surgical procedure can be performed to help. These are called nerve transfers. A nerve transfer involves finding a healthy working nerve and connecting it to a non-working muscle. In time, the working nerve grows into the muscle and over time (9-12 months) movement can happen. This helps to rewire the nerves to give children better movement and strength in their limbs.

• #71 Acute Flaccid Myelitis Los Angeles | Polio Symptoms Los Angeles

  https://www.losangelesnerve.com/conditions/arms/acute-flaccid-myelitis-afm/

  Surgery is recommended when it is believed that the chances of achieving further recovery are better with nerve reconstruction than waiting for the nerve to heal on its own. Patients should understand that there isn’t an unlimited time that you can wait to fix the nerves. By 12-18 months, the nerve permanently loses its connection to the muscle. After then, even if the injured nerve is reconstructed, it won’t be able to tell the muscle to contract. Taking that into account, and the fact that a repaired nerve heals at 1 mm a day, the timing of surgery directly depends on the location of paralysis.

• #72 Acute Flaccid Myelitis — LittleArms.org

  https://www.littlearms.org/acute-flaccid-myelitis

  So far, the only treatment for AFM that has shown some efficacy is nerve transfer. Nerve transfers involve taking redundant parts of a child’s nerves and transferring them to nerves that are not working. […] So far, nerve transfers have shown about 80% efficacy in restoring meaningful elbow bending and straightening. Hand function restoration has even better odds. Shoulder function, however, has proven more resistant to treatment with nerve transfers, with rates of overhead reach at about 20% and rotation of the shoulder at 40%.

• #73 Acute Flaccid Myelitis – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf

  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK606127/

  The onset of symptoms can be associated with meningism, headache, fever recurrence, pain in the affected limbs, or lower back pain. AFM typically progresses rapidly over a few hours or days. […] The prognosis of AFM varies widely from complete recovery of function to lethal outcomes among affected individuals. While some patients experience significant recovery, most have persistent and severe neurological deficits. Early and aggressive rehabilitation can improve outcomes, but the extent of recovery is often limited by the degree of initial neuronal damage.

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