Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Prenatally Diagnosed Isolated Cerebellar Hemorrhage by Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Case Series and Review of Literature.

BACKGROUND

The objective was to evaluate imaging and neurodevelopmental features in patients prenatally diagnosed with isolated cerebellar hemorrhage using fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

METHODS

This was a retrospective-cohort case series of patients with isolated cerebellar hemorrhage who underwent fetal MRI over a 9-year period. Existing literature in the field is also reviewed.

RESULTS

Nine patients were identified; male predominance (n = 6) was noted. Injury patterns on fetal MRI included left cerebellar hemisphere only (n = 4), bilateral cerebellar hemispheres and vermis (n = 2), left cerebellar hemisphere and vermis (n = 1), right cerebellar hemisphere (n = 1), and right cerebellar hemisphere and vermis (n = 1). Overall, neurodevelopmental outcomes were favorable for 8 patients with available follow-up (range: 5 months-8 years). Eighty-seven point five percent had normal ambulation and all had normal speech. None required feeding or respiratory support. One patient had a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. One patient had mild tremor with fine motor tasks. No patients had epilepsy.

CONCLUSIONS

While studies of preterm infants with isolated cerebellar hemorrhage report high risk for severe developmental delay, outcome in prenatally diagnosed isolated cerebellar hemorrhage is overall favorable.