Late detection of neuroblastoma in a patient with prolonged cerebellar ataxia without opsoclonus

Neuropediatrics. 2001 Apr;32(2):101-3. doi: 10.1055/s-2001-13876.

Abstract

A 19-month-old boy presented with acute-onset cerebellar ataxia following immunisation. Ataxia was prolonged with a fluctuating course over a period of two years. Opsoclonus was never observed. Extensive diagnostic studies were negative during this time. Finally, a neuroblastoma was discovered. Ataxia disappeared completely during polychemotherapy. This report suggests that occult neuroblastoma must be considered in any child with unexplained prolonged cerebellar ataxia. Specific investigations are recommended for such cases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Adrenal Gland Neoplasms / surgery
  • Antineoplastic Combined Chemotherapy Protocols / therapeutic use
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / diagnosis
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / drug therapy
  • Cerebellar Ataxia / etiology*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Neoadjuvant Therapy
  • Neuroblastoma / diagnosis*
  • Neuroblastoma / drug therapy
  • Neuroblastoma / surgery
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / diagnosis
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / drug therapy
  • Ocular Motility Disorders / etiology*
  • Paraneoplastic Syndromes / diagnosis
  • Paraneoplastic Syndromes / drug therapy
  • Paraneoplastic Syndromes / etiology*