What is cerebellar degeneration?

This is a condition in which the neurons of the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and muscle coordination, are damaged and die. This is primarily caused by hereditary genetic changes that affect the normal function of specific proteins essential for neuron survival.

Cerebellar degeneration is linked to a number of neurological and other pathologies that can cause neuronal death, including:

• Strokes (Cerebrovascular accidents).
• Ataxia.
• Corticocerebellar and multisystem atrophy.
• Cancer.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Olivopontocerebellar degeneration.
• Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Endocrine system diseases.
• Paraneoplastic syndromes.

Symptoms depend on the cause, but generally include:

• Speech problems (dysarthria).
• Unstable gait (ataxia).
• Dizziness.
• Uncoordinated eye movements (nystagmus).
• Stiffness.
• Tremors.

The specialist will analyze your symptoms and clinical history, then perform a physical examination and a neurological exam. They may also request other tests to help rule out other diseases and confirm the diagnosis, such as:

• Blood tests.
• Genetic tests.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
• Computed Tomography (CT scan).
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap).

Currently, there is no cure for cerebellar degeneration, so treatment focuses on controlling the symptoms through:

• Medications (drugs).
• Assistive devices for walking, eating, or speaking.
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation.
• Speech therapy.
• Occupational therapy.

At the Neurology Center, a group of highly trained and certified doctors in the various neurological specialties are ready to assist you with the quality and warmth that characterizes us.

Neurology Center
Internal medicine
Radiology and Molecular Imaging
Clinical Laboratory