Get TX HHS Acute Flaccid Myelitis Patient Summary Form 2019-2024

Testing and diagnosis of AFM A diagnosis of acute flaccid myelitis can be made with the observation of weakness of the limbs, decreased reflexes and poor muscle tone on exam. Evidence of injury to the spinal cord can be confirmed using a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan.

Clinical Criteria An illness with onset of acute flaccid* limb weakness. * Low muscle tone, limp, hanging loosely, not spastic or contracted.

Symptoms of AFM Difficulty moving the eyes or drooping eyelids. Facial droop or weakness. Difficulty with swallowing or slurred speech. Pain in arms or legs. Pain in neck or back.

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. It affects the nervous system, specifically the area of the spinal cord called gray matter, which causes the muscles and reflexes in the body to become weak.

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is an uncommon but serious neurologic condition. It affects the nervous system, specifically the area of the spinal cord called gray matter, which causes the muscles and reflexes in the body to become weak. Increases in AFM cases have occurred in 2014, 2016, and 2018 in the U.S.

Causes of Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM) AFM can be caused by viruses, including enteroviruses. CDC has been tracking AFM since 2014 when the United States recorded the first increase in AFM cases.

Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare, polio-like illness. It primarily affects young children, but there have been cases among adolescents and adults. AFM can lead to long-term complications, including paralysis, and in rare cases, death.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for acute flaccid myelitis. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms. A doctor who specializes in treating brain and spinal cord illnesses (neurologist) might recommend physical or occupational therapy to help with arm or leg weakness.