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An Adult Case of Acute EBV Cerebellitis
Katya Muscat1, Ruth Galea2, Malcolm Vella2
1Department of Medicine, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta.
Abstract:
Acute neurological manifestations of infectious mononucleosis are uncommon and have been predominantly reported in the paediatric population. We report a case of acute Epstein-Barr virus cerebellitis in an adult in whom spontaneous resolution of symptoms and signs occurred after 2 weeks of supportive treatment. An infective cause for an acute cerebellar syndrome in an adult must always be considered in the differential diagnosis when appropriate.
Learning Points:
A high index of suspicion is needed in adults who present with a febrile syndrome and cerebellar signs.An acute cerebellar syndrome may be the only manifestation of Epstein-Barr virus infection.In certain cases, conservative management may be sufficient depending on the clinical severity.
Insights
Acute cerebellar syndrome in adults, though rare, can be caused by Epstein-Barr virus (infectious mononucleosis). This case highlights that supportive care may suffice for recovery in adults with this neurological manifestation.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Virology
Background:
- Acute neurological manifestations of infectious mononucleosis are rare, particularly in adults.
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection, the cause of infectious mononucleosis, can present with diverse clinical features.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of acute cerebellitis in an adult caused by Epstein-Barr virus.
- To emphasize the importance of considering infectious etiologies for acute cerebellar syndromes in adults.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an adult diagnosed with acute Epstein-Barr virus cerebellitis.
- Clinical observation of symptom progression and response to treatment.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced spontaneous resolution of symptoms and signs within two weeks of supportive treatment.
- Cerebellar signs were the primary manifestation of the Epstein-Barr virus infection.
Conclusions:
- A high index of suspicion for EBV infection is warranted in adults presenting with febrile illness and cerebellar signs.
- Acute cerebellar syndrome can be an isolated presentation of Epstein-Barr virus infection in adults.
- Conservative management may be adequate for mild to moderate cases of EBV-associated cerebellitis.
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