Which statement is true of both poliomyelitis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

• A. Both are caused by viral infections.
• B. Both conditions result in the degeneration of motor neurons.
• C. Both primarily affect sensory neurons.
• D. Both are inherited genetic disorders.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the key characteristics of poliomyelitis and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Poliomyelitis is caused by a viral infection (poliovirus) that can lead to motor neuron damage, while ALS is a neurodegenerative disease that primarily affects motor neurons and is not caused by a virus.
2. Analyze the options provided in the question. The first option states that both are caused by viral infections, which is incorrect because ALS is not caused by a virus.
3. Evaluate the second option: 'Both conditions result in the degeneration of motor neurons.' This is accurate because poliomyelitis can damage motor neurons due to the viral infection, and ALS directly causes motor neuron degeneration.
4. Consider the third option: 'Both primarily affect sensory neurons.' This is incorrect because neither condition primarily affects sensory neurons; they both target motor neurons.
5. Review the fourth option: 'Both are inherited genetic disorders.' This is incorrect because while some cases of ALS are inherited, poliomyelitis is not a genetic disorder but a viral infection.