A case of postoperative cerebellar mutism with hyperphagia in a child following gross total resection of medulloblastoma occupying the cerebellar vermis

Childs Nerv Syst. 2022 Nov;38(11):2189-2198. doi: 10.1007/s00381-022-05520-9. Epub 2022 May 10.

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebellar mutism syndrome is a well-known complication following posterior fossa tumor resection. Its incidence is markedly increased among patients with medulloblastoma. Patients typically present with an inability to communicate verbally due to disruption of the dentato-thalamocortical pathway.

Case description: We present a unique case of cerebellar mutism in a three-year-old girl who underwent gross total resection of medulloblastoma occupying the cerebellar vermis. In addition to mutism, the patient developed hyperphagia.

Discussion: This case report aims to contribute to current understanding of the role of cerebello-hypothalamic connections in cerebellar mutism and their clinical significance.

Keywords: Cerebellar mutism; Cerebello-hypothalamic circuit; Hyperphagia; Medulloblastoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Cerebellar Diseases* / complications
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms* / epidemiology
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Cerebellar Vermis* / pathology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperphagia / complications
  • Hyperphagia / etiology
  • Medulloblastoma* / diagnostic imaging
  • Medulloblastoma* / epidemiology
  • Medulloblastoma* / surgery
  • Mutism* / etiology
  • Postoperative Complications / diagnostic imaging
  • Postoperative Complications / epidemiology
  • Postoperative Complications / etiology
  • Syndrome