Understanding Primary cerebellar degeneration: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

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Primary cerebellar degeneration

by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023

General

Primary cerebellar degeneration refers to deterioration of neurons in the cerebellum, which is a part of the brain that controls coordination and balance. Primary cerebellar degeneration is caused by inherited conditions, such as Friedreich ataxia and spinocerebellar ataxia (a group of conditions characterized by degenerative changes of the cerebellum, brain stem, and spinal cord).

1 people with Primary cerebellar degeneration

Learn from others who are experiencing Primary cerebellar degeneration.

Signs & symptoms

Symptoms of cerebellar degeneration include wide base, uncoordinated walk, back and forth tremor in the trunk of the body, uncoordinated movements of the arms and the leg, slurred speech, and nystagmus.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is suspected when there are concerning signs and symptoms that indicate cerebellar injury (poorly gait, hand-finger movements). It is diagnosed on a physical examination and medical history. The diagnosis may be completed by genetic testing, MRI and CT scans of the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment

There is no cure for primary cerebellar degeneration, treatment is mostly supportive and focuses on relieving the symptoms. Gait abnormalities are treated with special medication. Physical therapy is recommended to strengthen the muscles.

Note

☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike

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