[CT scan in acute vascular disorders of the cerebellum (author's transl)].

The clinical diagnosis of acute vascular disorders of the cerebellum (AVDC) is uneasy. Classical views emphasized poor prognosis and need for cranial decompression. These views were probably due to the fact that, in the past, a correct diagnosis was made in the cases with the most dramatic symptoms only. The authors report their findings in 13 cases of AVCD. The diagnosis was confirmed or established by CT scan, which showed cerebellar hemorrhage in 6 patients and cerebellar infarctus in 7 patients. CT scan lead to the recognition of AVCD cases with a more benign course than traditionally thought. In 12 out of 13 patients, there was no need for neurosurgical treatment. Finally, CT scans allowed the diagnosis of hemorrhage versus ischaemia and repeat scans demonstrated the evolution of the lesion.