Ataxia

The ataxias represent a diverse group of neurological disorders that affect coordination, balance, and control of movement. The ataxias discussed in this article reflect primarily cerebellar dysfunction and degeneration. There are many different etiologies for cerebellar ataxia, including sporadic disorders and hereditary ataxias. Symptoms generally involve deficits in arm and leg coordination, gait and balance, speech, swallowing, and eye movements. Although there have been tremendous advances in understanding the genetics and pathogenesis of the ataxias, improved therapeutics and disease-modifying treatments are needed.