Appart from genetic causes, what is the difference between Cerebellar and Friedrichs ataxia?

[Litty]

To be honest, I don't know very much about Friedreichs ataxia. I think we are going to have to rely on Harriet for this one.

I THINK that FA is more likely to start in childhood compared to CA. I think, if it is genetic, there is a 1 in 4 chance of passing the gene on rather than a 1 in 2 with some CAs. I think that with FA, you are more likely to suffer from curvature of the spine and need to use a wheelchair. Also possibly heart problems?

This could be complete rubbish and I apologise if it is, but I thought I would have a go!

[Fifa Volunteer]

\Hrllo Iain

I am like Lit and know little about Fredricks ataxia. I do know that generally it sttarts when you are young and it is genetic. I also think it affects spine and heart. You need someone with the condition to tell you all about it.

Take care

Kinnd regards

Carol

[HarryB Administrator]

Hi Iain

Sorry it has taken me so long to reply.

Fifa and Lit are correct in what they say. Freidreich's Ataxia or FA is the commonest inherited ataxia and is often diagnosed in childhood, the average age being about 15. As you said in your question FA is always genetic but there are causes of cerebellar ataxia or CA that are not. If the cause of CA is genetic, the mode of inheritance is different to that seen in FA. If you would like to read more about 'Genetics and Ataxia' I would strongly recommend reading the publication of the same name on the Ataxia UK website. I think it is excellent and explains a complicated subject well.

As you know in CA the cerebellum is the main part of the nervous system that is damaged, by whatever means. However in FA, although there is some involvement of the cerebellum, it is much less so. In FA there are much lower levels levels of a protein called frataxin which is essential for life. The low level of this protein is responsible for the death of certain nerve cells which leads to the symptoms of FA. There is damage to the nerve tissue in many different parts of the spinal cord but also to the peripheral nerves (nerves that connect the spinal cord to other parts of the body, eg. the arms and legs). Other cells in the body are affected in FA, and as the ladies said above, this means there can be problems with certain organs in a person with FA that wouldn't be a problem in CA, namely the heart, the pancreas giving rise to diabetes, the spine causing scoliosis or a curvature of the spine, and 'turned in ankles' which frequently requires an operation.

I hope this answers your question.

Harriet

[Nigel-2112]

With FA it normally starts in the young, but I was diagnosed at 40, so well into my second childhood! FA does tend have curvature of the spine and some heart problems

[Hidden]

Thanks for all your answers and clarification of the differences between FA and CA.

I had a look at the publications section on the Ataxia UK site regarding this subject Harriet. It gave me more insight and knowledge of ataxia. Thanks

[AdeDP]

Here's a link to the 'Genetics and ataxia' publication on the Ataxia UK website: bit.ly/JMK1PJ