True statement regarding poliomyelitis is:
**Core Concept**
Poliomyelitis, caused by the poliovirus, is a highly infectious disease that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, or even death. The virus primarily targets the motor neurons in the spinal cord, responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the pathophysiology of poliomyelitis. The virus invades the motor neurons through the bloodstream, causing inflammation and damage to the anterior horn cells in the spinal cord. This leads to the destruction of motor neurons, resulting in muscle weakness, paralysis, or atrophy. The virus can also cause aseptic meningitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because poliomyelitis is not primarily caused by a bacterial infection. While bacterial infections can trigger the onset of the disease, the actual cause is a viral infection.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the poliovirus does not directly cause inflammation of the meninges in the majority of cases. While some individuals may experience aseptic meningitis, this is not a characteristic feature of the disease.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because poliomyelitis is not a condition characterized by the formation of abscesses in the brain or spinal cord. The disease is caused by viral infection and inflammation, not bacterial infection or abscess formation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Poliomyelitis is a highly infectious disease that can be prevented through vaccination. The inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) is effective in preventing the disease and has been instrumental in global efforts to eradicate polio.
**Correct Answer:** Not provided. Please provide the correct answer options (A, B, C, D) for a complete explanation.