Cerebellar agenesis

Abstract

Lesions of the cerebellum produce profound deficits in movement. Since there is demonstrable recovery from partial lesions, some have asserted that the cerebellum may not be necessary for normal movement. It is even alleged that people may not manifest any motor symptoms despite total cerebellar agenesis. The literature points to a different conclusion. Cerebellar agenesis is always associated with profound motor deficits. A case of cerebellar agenesis of a man who died in 1951 is discussed. Evidence is presented that it is this case which gave rise to part of the oral tradition which alleges that normal movement is possible despite total cerebellar agenesis. In this brain an MRI scan revealed a small residual cerebellum. Moreover, despite an oral tradition to the contrary, there is absolutely no evidence about the motor capacities of this man during his life.