In poliomyelitis which part of spinal canal is involved:
**Core Concept**
Poliomyelitis, caused by the poliovirus, is a highly infectious disease that primarily affects the motor neurons of the central nervous system. The virus invades the spinal cord, leading to inflammation and damage to the motor neurons, resulting in muscle weakness, paralysis, and other neurological symptoms.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The poliovirus infects the motor neurons of the anterior horn of the spinal cord, specifically targeting the alpha motor neurons responsible for transmitting signals from the central nervous system to the muscles. This leads to flaccid paralysis, characterized by muscle weakness, wasting, and loss of reflexes. The anterior horn of the spinal cord is the primary site of motor neuron cell bodies, making it the most susceptible area to poliovirus infection.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** The posterior horn of the spinal cord is involved in processing sensory information and is not the primary site of motor neuron cell bodies.
* **Option B:** The lateral horn of the spinal cord is primarily involved in sympathetic nervous system function and is not directly affected by poliovirus infection.
* **Option C:** The central canal of the spinal cord is a fluid-filled space that contains cerebrospinal fluid and is not directly involved in the pathogenesis of poliomyelitis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The anterior horn of the spinal cord is the primary site of motor neuron cell bodies, and damage to this area can result in flaccid paralysis and loss of motor function.
**Correct Answer:** C. The anterior horn of the spinal cord.