Epstein-Barr virus-associated cerebellar ataxia

BMJ Case Rep. 2013 Apr 22:2013:bcr2013009171. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009171.

Abstract

Cerebellar ataxia is a common neurological presentation. It can be acute, subacute or chronic. Neurological complications of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) are well-recognised with a variety of presentations. Acute cerebellar ataxia is a rare, but an established complication. It has been described as the sole manifestation of EBV infection without the systemic features of infectious mononucleosis. The pathophysiology is not clear. The course of the illness may last for a few months with a benign outcome, though serious complications can happen. We present a case of a 38-year-old man who presented with an acute cerebellar ataxia owing to EBV infection, along with a review of the literature.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acyclovir / therapeutic use
  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / diagnosis*
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / drug therapy
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / virology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / diagnosis*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Acyclovir