NURS-06. MUSIC THERAPY: AN INTEGRAL PART OF REHABILITATION FOR CEREBELLAR MUTISM SYNDROME

Abstract

Abstract BACKGROUND Cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS) also known as posterior fossa syndrome (PFS), can occur in up to 25% of pediatric patients following surgical resection of posterior fossa brain tumors, particularly medulloblastoma. It is well recognized that intensive rehabilitation with physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy are essential to recovery. Music therapy can be immensely helpful during rehabilitation to stimulate brain functions involved in movement, cognition, speech, emotions, and sensory perceptions. This case-based review aims at analyzing the available evidence to support our recommendation to include music therapy in the rehabilitation plan for all patients. METHODS We report on the case of a 4-year-old male with medulloblastoma and cerebellar mutism syndrome who began talking after just a few sessions with music therapy. We include an extensive review of the literature where multiple papers were found describing the positive effects of music therapy for management of neurologic diseases. RESULTS The pathophysiology of CMS is still poorly understood however, the most likely mechanism is injury along proximal components of the efferent cerebellar pathway. Intensive inpatient rehabilitation remains the standard of care. Music therapy uses and activates many different parts of the brain at the same time, promoting neuron repair and regeneration. Some of the advantages of music therapy are: it promotes plasticity in the brain and facilitates processing of sensory information and motor function; improves stress and helps patients adapt to stressful environments; facilitates more normative speech production for patients with dysarthria. CONCLUSIONS Despite efforts to identify preventative measures for CMS, it still occurs. Intensive rehabilitation remains the cornerstone of treatment. The case study as well as the review of the literature support our recommendation to include music therapy in the rehabilitation plan for patients with CMS. More studies are necessary to explore the therapeutic efficacy of music on patients with CMS.