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DOI: 10.1055/a-2320-5600
Vestibular Rehabilitation of Patient with Hypertrophic Olivary Degeneration: A Case Report
Supported by: Tianjin Medical Key Discipline (Specialty) Construction Project TJYXZDXK-052BSupported by: Tianjin Science and Technology Project 21JCYBJC00420
Background Hypertrophic olivary degeneration (HOD) is a rare disorder that typically develops in the weeks to months following a structural brainstem or cerebellar lesion in the Guillain-Mollaret triangle (GMT). Clinically, patients with HOD present with palatal myoclonus and nystagmus, which are difficult to treat and rarely resolve. Purpose The purpose of this case is to present the results of vestibular and balance assessments of a patient with bilateral HOD before and after vestibular rehabilitation. Methods This case report describes a 43-year-old trucker who presented with dizziness, blurred vision, and balance problems for more than 10 months, accompanied by new-onset tremors and ataxia for more than 6 months. The patient's characteristic clinical manifestations were palatal myoclonus and nystagmus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed bilateral HOD after an acute pontine hemorrhage. Comprehensive vestibular and balance assessments were performed. Results Vestibular and balance assessments demonstrated nystagmus, impaired vestibulo-ocular reflex (VOR), optokinetic reflex (OKR), and balance function. Following 4 months of vestibular rehabilitation, the patient's eye symptoms and balance function were improved. Conclusions The case presented here highlights the rare clinical manifestations of HOD after pontine hemorrhage. Vestibular rehabilitation training may be beneficial for the recovery of patients with HOD.
Publication History
Received: 16 September 2023
Accepted after revision: 26 April 2024
Accepted Manuscript online:
06 May 2024
© . American Academy of Audiology. This article is published by Thieme.
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