Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: August 22, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Left Inferior Cerebellar Lacunar

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Lacunar Infarct: The most common cause of a lacunar syndrome, which presents with a specific set of symptoms due to the occlusion of a small penetrating artery, in this case, likely affecting the left inferior cerebellum.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Cerebellar Hemorrhage: Although less common than infarcts, hemorrhages can occur in the cerebellum and present with sudden onset of symptoms, including ataxia, dysarthria, and potential brainstem compression signs.
  • Cerebellitis: Inflammation of the cerebellum, which can be due to infectious or autoimmune causes, presenting with cerebellar symptoms such as ataxia, dysarthria, and nystagmus.
  • Demyleinating Disease (e.g., Multiple Sclerosis): Can present with a wide range of neurological symptoms, including cerebellar signs, depending on the location of the lesions.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Posterior Circulation Aneurysm: Although rare, an aneurysm in the posterior circulation can compress or rupture and cause symptoms similar to a lacunar infarct, with potentially catastrophic consequences if missed.
  • Cerebral Venous Thrombosis: Can cause cerebellar symptoms if the thrombosis involves the veins draining the cerebellum, and is critical to diagnose due to the need for anticoagulation.
  • Brainstem Tumor: A tumor in the brainstem can cause a variety of symptoms, including cerebellar signs, and is crucial to diagnose due to the potential for significant morbidity and mortality.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Mitochondrial Encephalomyopathy, Lactic Acidosis, and Stroke-like episodes (MELAS): A rare mitochondrial disorder that can cause stroke-like episodes, including in the cerebellum.
  • Cerebellar Abscess: A rare but potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.
  • Cerebrotendinous Xanthomatosis: A rare genetic disorder that can cause cerebellar ataxia among other symptoms, due to the accumulation of cholestanol in the brain and other tissues.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.