Neuropediatrics 2013; 44(03): 127-141
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1329909
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Acute Ataxia in Children: Approach to Clinical Presentation and Role of Additional Investigations

Andrea Poretti
1   Division of Pediatric Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
2   Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
,
Jane E. Benson
1   Division of Pediatric Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
,
Thierry A. G. M. Huisman
1   Division of Pediatric Radiology, Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
,
Eugen Boltshauser
2   Department of Pediatric Neurology, University Children's Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

30 July 2012

02 October 2012

Publication Date:
19 December 2012 (online)

Preview

Abstract

Acute ataxia is a fairly common emergency that confronts the pediatric neurologist in daily life. The differential diagnosis of acute pediatric ataxia is wide, but informed history and careful clinical examination can narrow it and help target investigations. This review discusses various etiologies of acute pediatric ataxia, focusing on clinical presentation, diagnostic considerations, and approach to investigation. Aspects of treatment and prognosis are also mentioned. Diseases with potentially high morbidity and mortality, such as acute cerebellitis, opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome, and cerebellar stroke, receive particular attention.