MAGNETIC-RESONANCE-IMAGING FINDINGS IN ACUTE CEREBELLITIS

Cerebellitis, also known as acute cerebellar ataxia, is an inflammator y syndrome of cerebellar dysfunction that may reflect an infectious, p ost-infectious, or post-vaccination disorder. We present serial magnet ic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in a partially reversible, idiopat hic cerebellitis. Bilateral cerebellar parenchymal abnormalities were noted, including hyperintensities on T2-weighted images and cerebellar swelling. After contrast administration, the cerebellum showed abnorm al bilateral enhancement. The authors state this represents the first report of abnormal contrast enhancement in this condition. The MRI les ions most likely reflect the reversible, inflammatory nature of the sy ndrome. (C) Elsevier Science Inc., 1998.