Post-polio syndrome, spinal cord injury and statin myopathy: double trouble or incorrect diagnosis? Two case reports.

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the importance of a thorough clinical examination and evaluation of symptoms in upper and lower motor neurone lesions.

DESIGN: Case report.

METHODS: Post-polio outpatient clinic, Danderyds University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. We describe here two patients with a past history of poliomyelitis, who were experiencing increasing muscular weakness. Clinical evaluation led to diagnoses of spinal cord injury and statin myopathy, respectively.

CONCLUSION: In order to make a correct diagnosis it is essential to distinguish between lower and upper motor neurone lesions. In the case of a lower motor neurone disorder a neurophysiological examination is necessary for a correct diagnosis, and is a prerequisite for adequate treatment and rehabilitation.