Cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin (phenytoin) is a concern in the patient population and medical community, with studies indicating a link for decades. The alleged link between cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin stems from potential drug toxicity. Studies suggest that chronic exposure to phenytoin could induce potential neurological damage in the brain.

While there are several serious side effects associated with the medication, cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin is considered one of the most serious correlations. Cerebellar atrophy, a type of focal cerebral atrophy, is the deterioration of the cerebellum and the neurological connections vital to speech and movement.

The cerebellum is primarily responsible for movement and speech functions, so any damage to the cerebellum could permanently impair the patient’s ability to move or speak. Patients suffering from cerebellar atrophy may suffer symptoms similar to stroke including:

• Unsteady or Lurching Walk
• Slow, Unsteady, Jerky Movements in Arms or Legs
• Slow and Slurred Speech
• Nystagmus (small rapid eye movements)
• Memory Loss

There could be a number of different factors that could contribute to the development of cerebellar atrophy, from degenerative disease or traumatic incidents. However, there have been numerous studies suggesting that cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin may be linked.

Overview of Cerebellar Atrophy and Dilantin

The first study to analyze the potential link between cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin was conducted in 1994, when researchers discovered patients exposed to phenytoin had significantly smaller cerebelli compared to other patients.

This study was initially conducted to observe the drug’s treatment mechanism and how it slowed down the electrical signals in the brain. By slowing down these electrical signals, seizures are ultimately prevented and help the patient live a normal life.

Dilantin is one of the country’s oldest and most reliable antiepileptic medications, available on the market for decades. The FDA approve the medication to treat generalized and partial tonic clonic seizures, as well as other epileptic conditions for off label treatment purposes.

However, the alleged correlation between cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin has the medical community heavily concerned, with one study conducted as recently as 2013. Researchers in this study stated that “persistent cerebellar dysfunction with cerebellar atrophy is well known complication of long term phenytoin use.”

The study revolved around a patient who allegedly suffered cerebellar degeneration due to phenytoin exposure. Researchers concluded that the damage may be worsened by larger doses. They also noted that acute Dilantin toxicity rarely induced cerebellar damage.

Another recent study published in 2008 had found similar results indicating a potential link between cerebellar atrophy and Dilantin. The study highlighted cases were the diagnosis was either late or missed, resulting in unnecessary medical treatments and the patients’ conditions compounded.

The authors of the study stated physicians should be aware of potential Dilantin side effects, with the authors suggesting that phenytoin based medications should not be prescribed for first line epilepsy treatment. Treatment for cerebellar atrophy varies between patients, but the condition should be diagnosed as soon as possible to prevent further damage.