Progressive cerebellar ataxia is a condition caused by damage to the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination, balance, muscular activity, and movement.

Progressive Cerebellar Ataxia Overview

Progressive cerebellar ataxia is a degenerative neurological condition that affects the nervous system. It occurs when the cerebellum is damaged due to exposure to certain medications, autoimmune disorders, genetics, or other factors.

The cerebellum is located at the back of the brain, behind the brainstem. It makes up about 10 percent of the total volume of the brain, and has several essential roles. Most of the jobs the cerebellum performs have to do with muscle movements or fine movements. This part of the brain helps to maintain balance by sending signals to the body to adjust in reaction to motion. The cerebellum coordinates muscle groups to work together so that movements are smooth and not jerky. When the cerebellum is damaged, it may be harder for it to do this job.

The cerebellum also aids in vision by coordinating eye movements so that the eye can move smoothly and focus on different parts of the field of vision. Additionally, the cerebellum plays an important role in fine motor skills. Motions such as tying a shoe, riding a bicycle, writing a letter, playing a musical instrument, or knitting are all made possible by the cerebellum’s signals to these muscle groups to work in coordination and operate smoothly.

There is some evidence that the cerebellum may also play a role in mood regulation, as well as cognitive processing. According to at least one study on the effects of cerebellar damage, people who suffer from cerebellar conditions may be more prone to exhibiting uninhibited or inappropriate behavior.

What are the Progressive Cerebellar Ataxia Symptoms?

Cerebellar ataxia has several recognizable symptoms. As damage to the cerebellum makes it difficult for the body’s muscle groups to work together and affects movement, the first symptom of progressive cerebellar ataxia is often a loss of coordination and balance.

This may result in an unsteady walk, accompanied by tremors in the torso and jerking movements of the arms and legs. In addition to difficulty walking or maintaining balance, other symptoms may include rapid and involuntary eye movements, memory loss, or difficulty performing fine motor tasks.

Ataxia may also cause problems with swallowing and speech. Many people with the condition suffer from difficulty speaking or slurred speech, and problems swallowing or eating.

What are the Causes?

Progressive cerebellar ataxia may be caused by several factors. In many cases, the condition is linked with genetics. In other cases, ataxia may develop due to conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, or tumors. It may develop due to overuse of alcohol. Ataxia may also occur as a side effect after having a stroke. In some patients, cerebellar ataxia may occur after exposure to certain medications including Dilantin.

Dilantin is a medication used to treat seizure disorders. It is often prescribed for the treatment of seizure disorders such as epilepsy, or to prevent seizures during or after brain surgery. However, the medication may result in negative side effects including damage to the cerebellum.

What Treatment Options are Available?

Unfortunately, progressive cerebellar ataxia is often not reversible. However, it may be possible to prevent further damage from occurring. If the ataxia has developed due to exposure to Dilantin, stopping the drug may prevent further cerebellar damage from occurring.

Treatment for progressive cerebellar ataxia often takes the form of managing symptoms caused by the condition. For people with loss of mobility or difficulty walking, the use of adaptive devices such as canes or walkers may be helpful. Patients may also benefit from physical or occupational therapy, speech therapy, and regular exercise. In some cases, medication to help with involuntary eye or muscle movements may also help to manage some of the symptoms.

What is the Life Expectancy for Progressive Cerebellar Ataxia?

Life expectancy for people suffering from progressive cerebellar ataxia is usually shorter than the life expectancy for people without the condition. However, some people with the condition are able to live into their 50s or 60s. Each case of cerebellar ataxia is different, and life expectancy may depend on the patient’s age, their age when their cerebellar ataxia began, and whether their ataxia increases to get worse over time or is managed with treatment.

If you have developed progressive cerebellar ataxia due to exposure to Dilantin, you may be able to talk to an experienced attorney about your legal options. Some victims of Dilantin-related ataxia may be able to file a class action lawsuit and pursue compensation for their injuries.

This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.