Paediatric: sequelae of poliomyelitis: practice question

A Orthopaedics question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Orthopaedics · Paediatric: sequelae of poliomyelitis

Sample item

Which describes the characteristic paralysis in poliomyelitis?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

A. Asymmetric flaccid paralysis with normal sensation

Poliovirus destroys anterior horn cells, producing asymmetrical lower motor neuron paralysis with wasting and hypotonia but intact sensation. Residual deformities include equinus foot and fixed contractures, and treatment is by tendon transfers and stabilising operations.

Option by option

  • A. Asymmetric flaccid paralysis with normal sensation (correct)

    Correct. Asymmetric flaccid paralysis with intact sensation is classic.

  • B. Ascending paralysis with areflexia and sensory loss

    Ascending paralysis with sensory change describes Guillain-Barre syndrome.

  • C. Symmetric sensory loss with preserved power

    Sensory loss is not a feature of polio.

  • D. Symmetric spastic paralysis with sensory loss

    Spastic paralysis suggests an upper motor neuron lesion.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Orthopaedics question

What is the answer to this Orthopaedics question?

The best answer is A, Asymmetric flaccid paralysis with normal sensation. Poliovirus destroys anterior horn cells, producing asymmetrical lower motor neuron paralysis with wasting and hypotonia but intact sensation.

Why is "Ascending paralysis with areflexia and sensory loss" not the answer?

Ascending paralysis with sensory change describes Guillain-Barre syndrome.

Why is "Symmetric sensory loss with preserved power" not the answer?

Sensory loss is not a feature of polio.

Why is "Symmetric spastic paralysis with sensory loss" not the answer?

Spastic paralysis suggests an upper motor neuron lesion.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Paediatric: sequelae of poliomyelitis in Orthopaedics. Residual deformities include equinus foot and fixed contractures, and treatment is by tendon transfers and stabilising operations.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Paediatric: sequelae of poliomyelitis?

Pair each fracture with its classic complication and nerve injured. Then use the flashcards and the other Orthopaedics questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.