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Pediatrics15 papers

Congenital flaccid paralysis

Last edited: 4/16/2026

Overview

Congenital flaccid paralysis, also termed Asian paralysis syndrome, is characterized by acute, bilateral symmetrical flaccid paralysis often involving bulbar regions, predominantly affecting motor function without sensory involvement, and showing partial recovery 1.

Diagnosis

  • Clinical Presentation: Bilateral symmetrical flaccid paralysis with potential bulbar involvement 1.
  • Differentiation: Distinct from Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) by lack of sensory involvement and partial recovery rate; from poliomyelitis by symmetry and absence of muscle spasms and prodromal symptoms 1.
  • Recommended Tests: Nerve conduction studies showing motor axonal neuropathy to differentiate from demyelinating neuropathies 1.
  • Management

  • Supportive Care: Focus on respiratory support if bulbar involvement is present 1.
  • Physical Therapy: Early initiation to aid recovery and prevent complications 1.
  • No Specific Pharmacological Treatment Mentioned: Absence of detailed pharmacological management recommendations in the provided abstracts 1.
  • Special Populations

  • Pediatrics: Commonly affects children, with significant public health implications due to mimicry of poliomyelitis 1.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Differentiate Asian paralysis syndrome from GBS and poliomyelitis based on clinical presentation and nerve conduction studies (Evidence: Moderate) 1.
  • Implement supportive care measures, particularly respiratory support for bulbar involvement (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • Initiate physical therapy early to optimize recovery outcomes (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • References

    1 Phadke MA, Gambhir PS, Deshpande AS, Kurlekar SU, Godbole KG. Asian paralysis syndrome. Annals of tropical paediatrics 1999. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Asian paralysis syndrome.Phadke MA, Gambhir PS, Deshpande AS, Kurlekar SU, Godbole KG Annals of tropical paediatrics (1999)

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