sporadic late-onset cerebellar degeneration

Last reviewed 01/2018

Sporadic late-onset cerebellar degeneration occurs as part of multiple system atrophy.

Onset is usually after the age of 50 years and follows a benign course. Clinical features are variable, ranging from a pure cerebellar ataxia with preservation of upper limb function to a pattern more typical of olivopontocerebellar degeneration.

CT reveals cerebellar and/or brain-stem atrophy. Mass lesions are absent.

It is important to exclude cerebellar degeneration secondary to alcohol, hypothyroidism, drugs, e.g. phenytoin etc.