Review abstract:

The review summarizes current concepts on the Post-Polio Syndrome (PPS), a condition that may arise in polio survivors after partial or complete functional recovery followed by an prolonged interval of stable neurologic function. PPS affects 15-20 million people worldwide. Epidemiologic data are reported, together with pathogenic pathways that possibly lead to the progressive degeneration and loss of neuromuscular motor units. As a consequence, polio survivors experience new weakness, generalized fatigue, atrophy of previously unaffected muscles, and physical decline that may culminate in the loss of independent life. Emphasis is given to the possible pathogenic role of persistent poliovirus infection and chronic inflammation.
These factors could contribute to neurological and physical decline in polio survivors. A perspective is then given on novel anti-poliovirus compounds and monoclonal antibodies that have been developed for contributing to the final phases of polio eradication. These agents could also be useful for treating or preventing PPS. Some of these compounds/antibodies are in early clinical development. Finally, current clinical trials for PPS are reported. In this area, the intravenous infusion of normal human immunoglobulins seems both feasible and promising.

Post-poliomyelitis syndrome as a possible viral disease, by Baj A, Colombo M, Headley JL, McFarlane JR, Liethof MA, Toniolo A in Int J Infect Dis. 2015 May 1. pii [Epub ahead of print]