Absence seizures are seizures that generally last just a few seconds, and are characterized by a blank or “absent” stare. They’re also sometimes called petit mal seizures.

Absence seizures are most common in children and typically don’t cause any long-term problems.

However, problems may arise when Dilantin, in combination with other anticonvulsant medications, is used to treat combined absence and tonic-clonic seizures as long-term use of Dilantin has been linked to a serious brain condition known as cerebellar ataxia.

What is Cerebellar Ataxia?

The term cerebellar ataxia is a description of a set of symptoms rather than a specific diagnosis or disease. Ataxia refers to an unsteadiness of gait or lack of muscle coordination. Cerebellar refers to the part of the brain called the cerebellum.

The cerebellum is located inside the back and base of the skull, just above the top of the spinal cord. It processes input from other areas of the brain, the spinal cord, and sensory receptors. It is responsible for coordination and balance.

In cerebellar ataxia, people may have an unsteady gait or lack of coordination because of problems with the cerebellum. Cerebellar ataxia can be classified as acute (onset is sudden and rapid) or chronic (occurring gradually over time).  It can also be recurrent (happening repeatedly on and off over time) or progressive (symptoms worsen over time).

Causes of Ataxia

Symptoms of cerebellar ataxia can appear without any obvious case, but there are many diseases, disorders and conditions reported as causes of ataxia.

They include infectious diseases, inherited or genetic conditions, tumors, trauma, and vascular conditions.  Additional causes of ataxia include exposure to toxins and long-term use of medications like Dilantin.

What is Dilantin?

As the brand name of phenytoin, Dilantin is the go-to treatment used to control and prevent certain types of seizures that begin during or following surgery to the nervous system or brain.  Dilantin is also used to control tonic-clonic seizures and partial seizures.

Dilantin belongs to a class of medications call anticonvulsants; the drug is effective by slowing down impulses in the brain that cause seizures.

Cerebellar Ataxia Treatment

Treatment of cerebella ataxia depends on the underlying disease, disorder, or condition.  Acute cerebellar ataxia caused by viral infections will usually go away without treatment after several weeks.

Treating other underlying diseases, disorders, or conditions can also help to improve symptoms of Cerebellar ataxia.  Otherwise, treatment is focused on providing support, relieving symptoms, and assisting with daily activities.

Dilantin Cerebellar Ataxia Lawsuit Information

Cerebellar ataxia is frequently associated with long-term use of Dilantin.  There is some evidence that individuals who take Dilantin long-term as a treatment for absence seizures or other seizure disorder may have an increased risk of suffering cerebellar ataxia.

If you or a loved on took Dilantin in combination with other anticonvulsant drugs to treat absence seizures and you have since been diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia, consult an experienced Dilantin lawyer to discuss your legal options.

You may be entitled to compensation for your Dilantin injuries, which you can pursue by filing a Dilantin lawsuit against the drug maker.