Acute cerebellar ataxia is a disorder of the nervous system marked by the sudden onset of a disturbance in muscle coordination, especially in the arms and legs. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination. It does not function properly in the case of cerebellar ataxia.
While it can occur at any age, acute cerebellar ataxia is most common in young children, occurring several weeks after a viral infection, such as chickenpox. Most cases go away without treatment in a matter of months, however recurrent or chronic progressive cerebellar ataxia, while rare, does occur.
If you suspect you or your child has this condition, contact your doctor immediately.
Causes of acute cerebellar ataxia include:
-
Viral infections, including:
- Exposure to certain toxins, such as lead, mercury, thallium, and alcohol
- Cerebellar hemorrhage, abscess, blood clot, or obstruction of an artery
Causes of recurrent or chronic acute ataxia include:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The following factors increase your chance of developing acute cerebellar ataxia:
- Childhood, especially three years of age or younger
- Viral infections
- Exposure to certain insecticides, drugs, or toxins
If you experience any of the following symptoms, do not assume it is due to acute cerebellar ataxia. These symptoms may be caused by other health conditions, as well. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.
- Uncoordinated movements of the limbs or trunk
- Clumsiness with daily activities
- Difficulty walking (unsteadiness)
- Speech disturbances with slurred speech and changes in tone, pitch, and volume
- Visual complaints
-
Accompanying symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Changes in mental state (such as personality or behavioral changes)
- Chaotic eye movements
- Clumsy speech pattern
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical and family history, and perform a physical exam. He or she will observe your limb coordination to assess the degree and nature of the ataxia.
Further tests may include the following:
- Examination of cerebrospinal fluid
- MRI
or
CT scan
– x-rays that use magnetic waves or computers to make pictures of structures inside the head
- Metabolic studies
- Ultrasound – a test that uses sound waves to examine the head
- Urine analysis
There is no treatment for acute cerebellar ataxia. Ataxia usually goes away without any treatment. In cases where an underlying cause is identified, your doctor will treat the underlying cause.
Drug treatment to improve muscle coordination has a low success rate; however, the following drugs may be prescribed for this purpose: clonazepam, amantadine, gabapentin, or buspirone. Occupational or physical therapy may also alleviate lack of coordination. And finally, changes to diet and nutritional supplements may help some patients.
There is no way to prevent acute cerebellar ataxia except to vaccinate children against viral infections that increase their risk of acquiring this condition.
