International Medical Case Reports Journal (Oct 2023)

The “White Cerebellum Sign”, a Striking Computed Tomography Scan Finding in a Critically Ill Infant: A Case Report

  • Shamavu GK,
  • Mahmud FA,
  • Maren MB,
  • Arias Ortiz YE,
  • Mseza B,
  • Tsongo FK,
  • Vahwere BM,
  • Egesa WI

Journal volume & issue
Vol. Volume 16
pp. 693 – 697

Abstract

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Gabriel Kakuru Shamavu,1 Fatima Abdullha Mahmud,1 Melvis Bernis Maren,1 Yamile Enedina Arias Ortiz,1 Banga Mseza,1 Fidel Kasereka Tsongo,2 Bienfait Mumbere Vahwere,3 Walufu Ivan Egesa1 1Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Pediatrics, Kampala International University Western Campus, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda; 2Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Radiology, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda; 3Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery, Kampala International University Western Campus, Ishaka-Bushenyi, UgandaCorrespondence: Gabriel Kakuru Shamavu, Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Pediatrics, Kampala International University Western Campus, PO Box 70, Ishaka-Bushenyi, Uganda, Email [email protected]: The “white cerebellum sign” is a striking neuroradiological finding, resulting from diffuse hypodense brain lesions in both cerebral hemispheres while sparing the cerebellum. This indicates widespread ischemic damage or expanded cerebral edema associated with the loss of white-gray matter differentiation. It is commonly reported in pediatric cases with severe neurological conditions, usually resulting in a poor prognosis. We present a case of a three-month-old female infant who was managed for confirmed acute bacterial meningitis complicated by status epilepticus, where the Computed tomography scan (CT scan) showed the “white cerebellum sign” in relation to diffuse cerebral hypoxic-ischemic lesions. However, the patient had a favorable outcome following treatment. This case underscores the importance of early recognition in cases presenting with the “white cerebellum sign”. It highlights the potential for a positive prognosis even in severe neurological conditions when appropriate interventions are promptly administered.Keywords: white cerebellum sign, CT scan, meningitis, case report

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