Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Question Title: General Information - Diagnosis, prognosis, treatment(?)

Forum: Neurology Forum
Topic: Ataxia


I know for sure having 'cerebellum atrophy'. It islikely, although unproven, that its origin is hereditary. Now I'm 50, the early signs of the disease last for 15 years,and I feel I should know everything about 'my' disease, specially in the prognosis area. I am very pleasesed about the follow-ups of my doctors (a neurologist and a psichyatrist), but that doesn't mean I feel I've got the information that an educa ted, responsible adult is entitled to. And I must stand my own dispositions...

Thank you for the help to be provided,

VITOR CORREIA
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Dear Vitor,

Cerebellar atrophy is described in a few instances. The most classic would
be in chronic alcohol consumption. Patients will demonstrate atrophy of the
cerebellum associated with difficulty in their gait (ataxia) associated with
some loss of memory.

Cerebellar atrophy can be described in a number of other diseases, including
a Chiari Malformation. In the Type II Chiari, a congenital disease, the cerebellum
is classically small, but this disease manifests in childhood. Lastly, a condition
called Olivo-ponto-cerebellar degeneration can result in cerebellar atrophy.
This disease is poorly understood.

Much of what is going on depends on your history, physical exam and imaging
studies that were done. None of this discussion is meant to imply that you
have such disorders, it is only offered for informational purposes. Speak
to your physician for some clear answers as to his impression of your situation.

Good luck.

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