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Episodic atatia
by Lindy99, May 08, 2008 07:47PM
I have been suffering with episodic ataxia since 7/04. I first experienced sudden ataxia that lasted 2 months with a almost complete recovery. Subsequently, I have been experiencing relapses every Nov/Dec. that last approx. 4 weeks. During the relapses I am totally debilitated for one of the weeks and need to use a cane for ambulation. However, since this past Dec. I have not been able to recover from my atatia. I have good and bad days. Since 04 I have seen 3 neurologists, 3 ENTs,ophthalmologist, allergist, had numerous MRIs of the brain, Spect test, ENG/VNG(nearly normal results), Western Blot for cochlear Abs, Lyme testing, Syphilis testing, carotid U/S, Rotary Chair, CDP and numerous labs. The only positive findings are ; positive Romberg's, markedly reduced vestibular pathway and visual scores, HLA typing revealed the presence of Cw7 and absence of DR4, wave form morphology was not as good on right to left optokinetic testing as on left to right. Simultaneous bilateral bi-thermal caloric testing was consistent with slight left weakness. Failed visual tracking in Rotary chair test. No one has been able to diagnose my disorder. I feel hopeless and do not know where to turn for help. Can you offer any assitance. Thank you.
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From the way you described your experiences, it seems that we are dealing with indeed a very complex problem, but I would just like to impart a few inputs. A positive romberg's test is a sign that the part of the brain called the cerebellum may be the culprit. The cerebellum is responsible for coordination and balance and problems with this part will result in ataxia. The specific problem affecting the cerebellum is more elusive. This could be due to vascular problems, viral infections, or demyelination problems. I suggest that you request your doctor to hold a multidisciplinary case presentation so that your case will be presented to a group or panel of experts. Hospitals usually have this kind of conference every now and then. I hope you and your doctors can get to the bottom of this soon. Regards.