Cerebellar ataxia

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Cerebellar ataxia
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Unsteady gait, poor coordination, dysarthria, nystagmus
Complications	Falls, injuries
Onset	Any age
Duration	Varies
Types	Acute cerebellar ataxia, chronic cerebellar ataxia
Causes	Genetic disorders, stroke, multiple sclerosis, alcohol abuse, tumors
Risks	Family history, autoimmune diseases, infections
Diagnosis	Clinical examination, MRI, genetic testing
Differential diagnosis	Vestibular disorders, peripheral neuropathy, Parkinson's disease
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medications
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies depending on cause
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Cerebellar Ataxia is a neurological disorder characterized by a pathological inability to coordinate movements. This condition is typically associated with lesions or damage to the cerebellum, a part of the brain that plays a vital role in motor control.

Causes

Cerebellar ataxia can result from various causes, including:

• Genetic disorders
• Stroke
• Brain tumors
• Chronic alcohol abuse
• Infections

Symptoms

Common symptoms of cerebellar ataxia include:

• Unsteady gait
• Poor coordination of hands, arms, and legs
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty with eye movements

Diagnosis

MRI scan used in diagnosing cerebellar ataxia.

Diagnosis of cerebellar ataxia involves a neurological examination, medical history review, and may include imaging tests like MRI or CT scans, and genetic testing if a hereditary disorder is suspected.

Treatment

While there is no cure for cerebellar ataxia, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and may include:

• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Medications for tremors or muscle stiffness

Prognosis

The prognosis for cerebellar ataxia varies depending on the underlying cause. Some types may remain stable or improve, while others may progress over time.

External Links

• Mayo Clinic - Ataxia
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke - Ataxia Information Page

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