What is Ataxia?
‘Ataxia’ means absence of order. People with ataxia have problems of co-ordination. This is because parts of the nervous system that normally control co-ordination and balance are affected. Ataxia is the principal symptom of a group of neurological disorders called the cerebellar ataxias. Most are progressive. Ataxia may also be a symptom of other conditions such as multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy. Ataxia UK will provide help to all people affected by ataxia, but focuses on the cerebellar ataxias. There are other organisations providing support where ataxia is a part of multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy or other conditions. There are many different types of cerebellar ataxia. Some are inherited. The most common is Friedreichs ataxia. For more detailed information on the cerebellar ataxias in general, the inherited ataxias or Friedreichs ataxia go to publications.
Ataxia comes from the Greek a taxia, meaning literally “no order”. It is a blanket term referring to a loss of ability to control one’s muscles. Ataxia has a number of causes and a number of treatments. Ataxia can be broken into two distinct groups: sporadic and hereditary. Hereditary ataxia can usually be traced to a family history, and can be linked to twenty-two gene mutations. These mutations are labeled “spinocerebellar ataxia type 1” through 22 — in shorthand referred to simply as SCA1-22. Sporadic ataxia is a form of ataxia which is not linked to a genetic defect. Hereditary ataxia can be separated into types caused by a metabolic defect, and those which fit the mold of a named disorder. In all cases they are inherited from a defective gene, and the identification of these genes continues at an encouraging pace. Some of the many types of hereditary ataxia include: Machado-Joseph disease, ataxia with opthalmoplegia, spinopontine atrophy, ataxia with etinopathy, and slow-eye movem
