Post-Infectious Cerebellitis in Pediatric Age: Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Ataxia is defined as impaired coordination of voluntary motor activity. Clinical features include broad-based gait, tremor, truncal instability, dysarthria, and nystagmus. In most children, gait disturbance is the predominant symptom; However, cerebellar dysfunction may also manifest as fine motor impairment or tremor. Post-infectious cerebellitis is a rare but important cause of acute ataxia in pediatrics.

Case Presentation: We report the case of a 10-year-old male who presented to the pediatric emergency department with a 5-day history of acute gastroenteritis, showing moderate dehydration, oral intolerance, persistent vomiting, asthenia, and adynamia . Twelve days before admission, he had a respiratory infection with fever, treated with cefotaxime for 7 days. Neurological examination revealed dysarthria, horizontal nystagmus, mildly decreased tone, dysdiadochokinesia, dysmetria, truncal and lateropulsion gait ataxia, impaired tandem gait, and intention tremor. Pediatric neurology evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of post-infectious cerebellitis , with a pancerebellar syndrome.

Management and Outcome: Systemic corticosteroid therapy was initiated, leading to clinical improvement and remission of neurological symptoms.

Conclusion: Post infectious cerebellitis should be considered in pediatric patients presenting with acute ataxia and a recent infectious history. Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial to ensure favorable outcomes and avoid unnecessary interventions.