What disease destroys the cells of the anterior gray horn?

Poliomyelitis can destroy nerve cells in the anterior gray horn of the spinal cord, according to the Merck Manual. Less than 1 percent of cases affect the central nervous system.

The polio virus causes poliomyelitis. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected individuals or their feces, as stated by the Merck Manual. Many people have no symptoms; others experience a minor infection. In those cases where the virus invades the central nervous system, the affected person can experience muscle pain, muscle spasms, urinary retention, trouble breathing and paralysis. The best way to prevent polio is to vaccinate infants and young children.