Subacute Cerebellar Degeneration (Note the Presence of Malignant Tumors) Quiz

Subacute cerebellar degeneration (SCD) is characterized by the deterioration of the area of the brain concerned with muscle coordination and balance (the cerebellum). It is caused by a variety of factors including inherited gene mutations, alcohol abuse, and paraneoplastic syndromes (a group of rare disorders that are triggered by abnormal immune system reaction to a cancerous tumor).

• Difficulty in walking

• Hands and legs became clumsy - I cannot do fine work with them

• Slurred speech

• Difficulty standing up from sitting position

• I feel like I'm spinning around / vertigo

• Nausea or vomiting

• Unable to speak or using incorrect words

• History of cancer

There is no cure for hereditary forms of subacute cerebellar degeneration. Treatment is usually supportive and is based on the person's symptoms. Medications to ease movement abnormalities and physical therapy can help.