Unsteady gait/slurred speech???

[judyone]

For two weeks a friend of mine has had, 48 yr old male, unsteady gait and now slurred speech. He was admitted to the hospital today and his MRI and CAT scan were negitive. What other than, stroke and a brain tumor could cause these symptoms? Any suggestions would be GREATLY appereciated

[bugbarb]

Since my personal experience, my personal hell, was/is Lyme disease I always consider that when atypical neurological symptoms present.  In my early Lyme, I felt like my legs were drunk.  It was like I got really drunk, but only in my legs.  I don't remember slurred speech, just difficulty getting words out, not being able to remember the right word for something, pauses in my speech kind of like a log jam in my brain.  Unfortunately, I am one of the few who is "seronegative". I don't test positive for any disease. The only abnormal tests are the nerve conduction and emg tests. Also the subjective tests of reflexes, balance, coordination and strength performned in the neuro docs office showed problems.

[judyone]

When they do an MRI of the brain do they always include the cerebellum?? Is it easy to miss a tumor in that area of the brain? If they think it is virus related would they do lab work and than a spinal tap?  Thank you very much.

[PaulMD]

Hi there.

Strokes involving the cerebellum as well as tumors in that area are the common causes of this occurrence.  Other causes would include micronutrient deficiency (vitamin B complex or vitamin E), neuropathic effects of alcohol, or heavy metal poisoning.  A negative scan in the beginning of the symptoms does not rule out a stroke as this can be evolving and may show up in later scans.  I suggest that you discuss these options and possibilities with his doctors.  I hope he gets well soon.  Regards and God bless.