Acute ataxias: differential diagnosis and treatment approach

Abstract

In many cases, acute ataxia presents a neurologic emergency that must be assessed and treated effectively in order to save a patient's life and protect the patient from potential permanent complications and disabilities. A thorough knowledge of cerebellar anatomy and physiology and familiarity with common causes of acute ataxia, enable the clinician to develop a rapid and effective diagnostic approach and effective management approach.

Keywords: Abscess; Ataxia; Cerebellum; Decompression; Hydrocephalus; Infection; Stroke; Wernicke encephalopathy.