What is Wallenberg's Syndrome?

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Wallenberg’s syndrome is a neurological condition caused by a stroke in the vertebral or posterior inferior cerebellar artery of the brain stem.  Symptoms include difficulties with swallowing, hoarseness, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, rapid involuntary movements of the eyes (nystagmus), and problems with balance and gait coordination.  Some individuals will experience a lack of pain and temperature sensation on only one side of the face, or a pattern of symptoms on opposite sides of the body – such as paralysis or numbness in the right side of the face, with weak or numb limbs on the left side.  Uncontrollable hiccups may also occur, and some individuals will lose their sense of taste on one side of the tongue, while preserving taste sensations on the other side.  Some people with Wallenberg’s syndrome report that the world seems to be tilted in an unsettling way, which makes it difficult to keep their balance when they walk. 

Is there any treatment?
Treatment for Wallenberg's syndrome is symptomatic. A feeding tube may be necessary if swallowing is very difficult.  Speech/swallowing therapy  may be beneficial. In some cases, medication may be used to reduce or eliminate pain.  Some doctors report that the anti-epileptic drug gabapentin appears to be an effective medication for individuals with chronic pain. 

What is the prognosis?
The outlook for someone with Wallenberg’s syndrome depends upon the size and location of the area of the brain stem damaged by the stroke.  Some individuals may see a decrease in their symptoms within weeks or months.  Others may be left with significant neurological disabilities for years after the initial symptoms appeared. 

What research is being done?
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) conducts research related to Wallenberg’s syndrome in its laboratories at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and also supports additional research through grants to major medical institutions across the country.  Much of this research focuses on finding better ways to prevent, treat, and ultimately cure disorders such as Wallenberg’s syndrome.

Synonyms: Lateral Medullary Syndrome