[Fisher's syndrome. Peripheral or central origin (author's transl)]

Abstract

The syndrome described by M. Fisher in 1956 includes ophtalmoplegia, ataxia, and generalized loss of reflexes. It is classically considered to be of peripheral origin and its relation to Guillain and Barre's syndrome in its mesencephalic form is debatable. The authors review 5 cases and discuss the question of a probable central origin. They base their opinion on the pathognomonic features of these cases and those in the literature, as well as the results of their oculographic and electromyographic studies. They stress the importance of the nature of the ataxia; the severe equilibrium disturbances noted in these patients could result, contrary to usual thinking, more from a central vestibular syndrome than from a cerebellar lesion.