Adenovirus cerebellitis in an immunocompetent 2-year-old girl

Acute cerebellitis (AC) is a principal cause of acute cerebellar dysfunction in previously well children. Although the condition is usually benign, fatal complications include obstructive hydrocephalus and brainstem compression; therefore, prompt accurate diagnosis is vital. (1) There are various pathogens reported in the literature as aetiological agents of AC; however, adenovirus is very rarely mentioned, with only one previous case report in the literature to the best of our knowledge. (2) This case demonstrates the importance of recognising adenovirus as a cause of AC, particularly when preceded by a respiratory tract infection in the paediatric age group. Furthermore, we highlight the role of early neuroimaging in differentiating AC from other causes of acute cerebellar dysfunction, which require different management. Our patient made a full recovery with no long-term deficits demonstrating that comprehensive investigation and consideration of atypical pathogens in the context of AC is vital in securing a favourable outcome.