Heat stroke induced cerebellar dysfunction: A “forgotten syndrome”

Abstract

We report a case of heat stroke induced acute cerebellar dysfunction, a rare neurological disease characterized by gross cerebellar dysfunction with no acute radiographic changes, in a 61 years old ship captain presenting with slurred speech and gait ataxia. A systematic review of the literature on heat stroke induced cerebellar dysfunction was performed, with a focus on investigations, treatment and outcomes. After review of the literature and detailed patient investigation it was concluded that this patient suffered heat stroke at a temperature less than that quoted in the literature.

Keywords: Heat stroke, Cerebellar syndrome, Ataxic hemiparesis, Hyperthermia, Cerebellar atrophy

Core tip: Heat stroke induced cerebellar damage is a rare and challenging neurological problem. The cerebellum is vulnerable to high temperature which may cause irreversible cell damage with permanent disability. Thorough evaluation with neuroimaging and laboratory investigations are required to exclude alternative diagnosis.