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Mumps-associated acute cerebellar ataxia
H A Cohen1, A Ashkenazi, M Nussinovitch
1Department of Pediatrics, Golda Medical Center, Hasharon Hospital, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Petah Tiqwa, Israel.
Abstract:
During a mumps outbreak between 1987 and 1988, six children presented with symptoms of acute cerebellar involvement as the sole neurologic complication. The neurologic symptoms followed parotitis and lasted for up to 3 weeks. Serologic evidence was suggestive of recent mumps infection. Symptoms spontaneously resolved in all patients without any residual signs or symptoms during 2- to 2.5-year follow-up.
Insights
Mumps infection can cause acute cerebellar ataxia in children. Neurologic symptoms resolved spontaneously within 3 weeks, with no long-term effects observed in a 1987-1988 outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mumps virus is a common cause of childhood illness.
- Neurologic complications, though rare, can occur during mumps outbreaks.
- Acute cerebellar ataxia is a potential neurological manifestation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of acute cerebellar involvement in children during a mumps outbreak.
- To investigate the association between mumps infection and isolated neurologic symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis.
- Clinical evaluation of six pediatric patients presenting with neurologic symptoms.
- Serologic testing to confirm mumps infection.
- Follow-up assessments for 2 to 2.5 years.
Main Results:
- Six children exhibited acute cerebellar ataxia as the sole neurologic complication following parotitis.
- Neurologic symptoms persisted for up to 3 weeks.
- Serological tests confirmed recent mumps infection in affected children.
- All patients achieved complete recovery without residual deficits.
Conclusions:
- Acute cerebellar ataxia can be a self-limiting neurologic complication of mumps in children.
- Prompt diagnosis and supportive care lead to favorable outcomes.
- Mumps vaccination remains crucial for preventing such complications.