ACUTE NEAR-FATAL PARAINFECTIOUS CEREBELLAR SWELLING WITH FAVORABLE OUTCOME

The clinical course, neuro-imaging features and neuropathologic findin gs in a child with para-infectious acute cerebellar swelling are descr ibed, Reversible transtentorial and transforaminal herniations occurre d and required emergency posterior fossa decompression with external v entricular drainage. Neuropathologic examination of a cerebellar biops y demonstrated a subacute pathogen-free cerebellitis. Following neuros urgical intervention and steroid therapy, symptoms and signs resolved and the patient is well 3 years later, Acute para-infectious cerebella r swelling is potentially fatal unless recognised and treated early in its evolution.