General description

Acute cerebellar ataxia represents the predominant cause of ataxia in children, accounting for 40% of all pediatric ataxia cases. This condition, known for its favorable prognosis, often follows an infection or immunization. Varicella-zoster virus is identified as a leading cause of the preceding infection. Additionally, mumps virus, enteroviruses (such as ECHO and coxsackie), measles virus, HSV-1, parvovirus, and rotavirus have also been reported as causative agents. Among these, mumps ranks as the second most common preceding infection leading to acute cerebellar ataxia, following varicella.

Radiographic features

Imaging studies reveal bilateral diffuse cerebellar swellings and T2WI/FLAIR hyperintensities. Leptomeningeal contrast enhancement in the cerebellar pia mater is observed. Occasionally, diffusion restriction is observed at the splenium of the corpus callosum.