acute quadriplegic myopathy

Acute quadriplegic myopathy (AQM) is an acquired muscle condition that typically affects patients in the intensive care unit (ICU). It is marked by severe muscle weakness and atrophy (wasting) of the muscles in the limbs and trunk that are controlled by spinal nerves. This means that many muscles used for movement may become very weak, while those in the face that are controlled by cranial nerves are usually less affected.

People with this condition experience profound muscle weakness and decreased muscle size, particularly in the arms, legs, and torso. Despite these significant changes, the muscles in the face and sensory as well as cognitive functions are generally spared or not as severely affected.

Acute quadriplegic myopathy is not inherited. It usually occurs in the setting of critical illness, and several factors may trigger it. These include prolonged mechanical ventilation, muscle unloading, a postsynaptic block of neuromuscular transmission, sepsis, and the use of systemic corticosteroid hormones. Each of these factors can contribute to the changes seen in the muscle membrane and the loss of important muscle proteins such as myosin.

Information about treatment is currently limited for this condition.

Information about prognosis is currently limited for this condition.

Information about research is currently limited for this condition.