Article

The aim of this study was to investigate signs of inflammation in
muscle of patients with prior polio, since the main symptoms in these patients
are muscle pain, weakness and fatigue. In the context of pain and inflammation,
the prostaglandin E2 pathway is of interest. Prostaglandin E2 has many biological
actions and is a mediator of inflammation and pain. METHODS:
Skeletal muscle biopsies from 8 patients with prior polio and post-polio
symptoms, presenting with pain and muscular weakness, and from 6 healthy controls
were studied. Immunohistochemistry, conventional microscopy, and computerized
image analysis were performed. RESULTS: There was statistically significant
higher expression of enzymes of the prostaglandin E2 synthetic pathway, in muscle
from patients, compared with controls. Expression of prostaglandin enzymes was
mainly in scattered cells and blood vessels, and may indicate an inflammatory
process of the muscle, which could be secondary to systemic inflammation.
CONCLUSION: This data may indicate an inflammatory process in muscle of prior
polio patients. Up-regulation of the prostaglandin E2 pathway reveals a potential
background to the pain experienced by these patients, and may provide
opportunities for directed pharmacological and physical therapies, which could
lead to better outcomes of rehabilitation interventions.

Langue : ANGLAIS