Psychiatry intervention in cerebellar cognitive affective disorder: Case report

Abstract

Background/objectives

Cerebellar cognitive affective syndrome (CCAS) is a condition that arises from cerebellar lesions. CCAS can easily be overlooked by medical teams; therefore a bibliographic review will facilitate the understanding of symptoms in order to effectively diagnose and provide a holistic early treatment approach.

Methods

A case report of a 72-year-old woman with bilateral cerebellar lesions with high pre-morbid function presented with classic symptoms of CCAS. Multidisciplinary workup included medical, psychiatric, neuropsychological assessment (R-BANS (Form 1), Digit Span, Verbal fluency tests, the Hayling Test, the Delis-Kaplan Executive Function System) as well as other investigations (neuroimaging and blood tests) were conducted on the patient to confirm CCAS and exclude other differential diagnoses.

Results

The results from the medical assessments conducted showed symptoms of cerebellar dysfunction. A psychiatry and neuropsychological review revealed aggression, irritability, disinhibition, deterioration in cognitive function and personality changes. A multidisciplinary team was formed to rehabilitate the patient however patient was non-compliant with therapy. The patient was prescribed Seroquel 50 XR and she responded well to the medication.

Conclusion

This case review illustrates the challenges associated with engaging a CCAS patient in rehabilitation activities due to cognitive and mood disorders. The use of psychotropic medications can be an effective method in improving cognition and mood disorders in CCAS patients. Early psychiatry and psychological intervention can significantly improve the overall outcome of a patient diagnosed with CCAS.

Funding source

Nil.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.