Cerebellar ataxia is an inflammation of the cerebellum secondary to infection. It is also known as cerebellar ataxia. It most commonly affects children between the ages of 2 and 6 years old.
The exact cause is unknown, although it is believed to have an autoimmune origin. Most cases appear after a viral infection: chickenpox, Epstein Barr virus, mumps, etc.
It manifests with a movement disorder called ataxia, which makes walking, balance and fine coordinated movements difficult. Symptoms usually appear rapidly. It is rarely accompanied by fever or convulsions.
The diagnosis is clinical but other causes of ataxia, such as toxins or alcohol, must be ruled out. Imaging or lumbar puncture may be necessary in the presence of atypical symptoms or if another pathology or trauma is suspected.
There is no specific treatment. Symptom supportive treatment should be prescribed.
Patients usually improve spontaneously after the first week. Approximately 9 out of 10 children have full recovery within 4 months of symptom onset.
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