Hypertrophic olivary degeneration (HOD) is a rare neurological condition caused by degeneration in the brain stem, the structure that connects the brain to the spinal cord.
[1] Signs and symptoms include palatal tremors, lack of movement coordination (
ataxia), Holmes tremor, vision problems, muscle weakness, and gait impairment, along with an
MRI showing enlargement (hypertrophy) of the
inferior olivary nucleus. The inferior olivary
nucleus is the lower part of the olivary body, an oval structure located on each side of the brain stem that assists in cerebellar motor learning and functioning.
[2][3][4] HOD is considered unique because the olive initially becomes hypertrophic rather than atrophic (wasted). Over time, the olive goes through atrophy. These changes can be followed by MRI, and even though the
imaging characteristics of HOD resolve, the clinical hallmarks such as palatal tremor persist.
[1] HOD is caused by lesions to the
dentate-rubro-olivary pathway (or Guillian-Mollaret triangle). Lesions may be due to bleeding, ischemia (restricted blood flow), vascular malformations, infarct (localized
tissue death),
tumors, and several neurological diseases, but there are cases of HOD where no cause can be identified. HOD may be classified as unilateral (affecting one side) or bilateral (affecting two sides). The condition is commonly managed with medication, but some cases may require surgery.
[2][4]
Last updated: 1/27/2017
