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Ocular flutter and truncal ataxia may be associated with enterovirus infection
G Wiest1, G Safoschnik, G Schnaberth
1Department of Clinical Neurology, University Clinic of Neurology, Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
We report on three patients who presented a rare, uniform clinical syndrome consisting of ocular flutter and truncal ataxia. In all patients the symptoms followed an upper respiratory infection and resolved without sequelae within a few weeks. Previous reports have emphasized the apparent relationship of this entity to infectious disease, but the infectious agent remained uncertain. In one patient we could find a significant rise in antibody titres to enterovirus. We are not aware of any other similar documented case.
Insights
This study details a rare syndrome of ocular flutter and truncal ataxia following respiratory infections. Enterovirus infection was suspected in one case, with symptoms resolving spontaneously.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Ocular flutter and truncal ataxia can present as a rare clinical syndrome.
- Previous reports suggest a link to infectious diseases, but the causative agent remains elusive.
Observation:
- Three patients presented with a uniform clinical syndrome of ocular flutter and truncal ataxia.
- Symptoms in all patients occurred after an upper respiratory infection.
- The neurological symptoms resolved without lasting effects within weeks.
Findings:
- A significant rise in antibody titers to enterovirus was detected in one patient.
- This specific combination of symptoms and its association with enterovirus is previously undocumented.
Implications:
- Suggests enterovirus as a potential cause for this specific neurological syndrome.
- Highlights the importance of considering viral etiologies in post-infectious neurological presentations.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the link between enteroviruses and this syndrome.