Poliomyelitis - Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Polio

Diagnosis of polio is done by a complete physical examination. Other lab tests are carried out to confirm the diagnosis.

Individuals are generally suspected to have poliomyelitis if they exhibit symptoms of fever with limb weakness or paralysis. Testing muscle reflexes and signs of muscle weakness, abnormal muscle contractions, and decreased muscle tone will provide indications for further tests.

Besides undergoing a complete physical examination and assessment of medical history, the following tests may be completed for confirmation:

• Isolation of virus, for cultures, from the stool or pharynx or cerebrospinal fluid can confirm diagnosis
• Increased levels of antibodies to the poliovirus is indicative of poliomyelitis
• In case of poliovirus infection, the cerebrospinal fluid usually shows an increased number of white blood cells and a mildly elevated protein level.

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