Acute pediatric cerebellitis and mutism. Case report and review of the literature

Acute cerebellitis (AC) is a rare syndrome characterized by an inflammatory involvement of the cerebellum which can complicate infections or vaccinations. AC can be a life-threatening condition, presenting with speech disorders including longlasting mutism, usually followed by dysarthria. Clinical examination, laboratory findings and Magnetic Resonance Imaging are essential for establishing an early diagnosis and initiating prompt and adequate treatment, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. We report a case of a child with AC complicated by mutism and we present a review of the literature of pediatric cases with this condition.