Acute Flaccid Myelitis in Early Infancy: A Rare Presentation

A bstract Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a rare but serious neurological condition that primarily affects the gray matter of the spinal cord, leading to sudden onset of muscle weakness. AFM often follows a viral illness, especially respiratory infections, and has been associated with enteroviruses. A 3-month-old previously healthy baby presented with an acute onset of asymmetrical lower-limb paralysis following a brief upper respiratory viral illness. The lumbar puncture was normal, with a negative viral polymerase chain reaction result. Nerve conduction studies showed acute motor axonal neuropathy. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was suggestive of a spinal cord gray matter lesion. The baby was treated with intravenous immunoglobulin and physiotherapy, and at the 3-month follow-up, resolution of spinal gray matter lesions on MRI, along with an improvement in power, has been documented. Early identification and prompt treatment of AFM in young infants have been highlighted.