What are the different types of hereditary ataxia?

hereditary ataxia is a form of ataxia caused by the genetic inheritance of mutated genes. There are more than 70 types of hereditary ataxia, including autosomal recessive and autosomal dominant ataxia and can affect all areas of the body. Each individual ataxia is categorized by its specific genetic mutation. Mutated genes do not allow proper growth and development of the nervous system and brain. Over time, this leads to damage responsible for the symptoms of ataxia.

Ataxia is a condition that leads to loss of muscle control and physical coordination. It can affect the whole body including arms, legs, mouth and eyes. If these areas are affected, there may be problems with basic functions such as speaking, walking and even swallowing. Hereditary ataxia has neurological symptoms that do not appear at once, but rather over mana years. As the condition proceeds, the symptoms that occur will be more serious, which will lead to a paralysis and dependence on the wheelchair. All types of hereditary ataxia fall into one of two groups. AutosomalThe recessive ataxia is when genetic mutations are passed from both parents. Autosomal dominant ataxia is when only one parent passes on a mutation.

Friedreich's ataxia and ataxia-telangiectasia are two types of autosomal recessive ataxia. In the case of Friedreich's ataxia, symptoms begin at any time between five and 20 and 20 years. Symptoms of ataxia-telangiectasia, on the other hand, begin during childhood or five years ago.

Two types of autosomal dominant ataxia are spinocerebellar and episodic ataxia. Symptoms of spinocerebellar ataxia begin around 30 to 40 years. Episodic ataxia is more rare with symptoms that occur over adolescent years, and there are time periods when there are no symptoms.

genetic testing will be performed if ataxia is suspected to determine the type of ataxia based on a specific mutated gene. To test the cerebrospinal fluid usually pequals the lumbar puncture. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computer topography (CT) can be performed to check the abnormalities of the brain.

Treatment of hereditary ataxia is symptomatic care. Ataxia cannot be cured, but the symptoms that occur can be managed to prevent extreme discomfort. Several different types of doctors will work to help patients solve symptoms, including a neurologist, ergotherapist and therapist.