What is Cerebellar Hypoplasia?

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Cerebellar hypoplasia is a developmental disorder characterized by the incomplete or underdevelopment of the cerebellum. It may be genetic, or occur sporadically. Cerebellar hypoplasia may be caused by thyroid abnormalities, environmental influences such as drugs and chemicals or viral infections, or stroke. In infancy, symptoms may include developmental delay, hyptonia, ataxia, seizures, mental retardation, and involuntary eye movements (nystagmus). At later ages, symptoms include headache, vertigo, imbalance, and hearing impairment. Cerebellar hypoplasia may be associated with other disorders including Dandy Walker syndrome, Werdnig-Hoffman syndrome, and Walker-Warburg syndrome.

Is there any treatment?
There is no standard course of treatment for cerebellar hypoplasia. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.

What is the prognosis?
Cerebellar hypoplasia is a progressive disorder.

What research is being done?
The NINDS conducts and supports a wide range of studies that explore the complex mechanisms of normal brain development. The knowledge gained from these fundamental studies provides the foundation for understanding how this process can go awry and, thus, offers hope for new means to treat and prevent developmental brain disorders, including cerebellar hypoplasia.