Spinocerebellar Ataxia

Spinocerebellar ataxia, or SCA, is a group of neurological disorders that affect the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination of movement. SCA is caused by genetic mutations, which means that it is inherited and passed down from parents to their children. The symptoms of SCA can vary depending on the type of genetic mutation involved, and can include difficulty with balance, coordination, and speech, as well as tremors, muscle stiffness or weakness, and trouble with eye movement. These symptoms tend to worsen over time, leading to progressive disability and a reduced quality of life. Currently, there is no cure for SCA. However, there are several treatments available that aim to manage the symptoms of the disease and improve quality of life. For example, therapy can help patients manage their balance and coordination, while medications can be used to alleviate tremors and other movement problems. Research into SCA is ongoing, and new treatments and therapies are being developed all the time. Some promising areas of research include gene therapy, which aims to correct the genetic mutations that cause SCA, and stem cell therapy, which seeks to replace damaged nerve cells with healthy ones. If you or someone you know is living with SCA, it is important to work closely with a healthcare provider who is familiar with the disease and can provide the support and treatment needed to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.


From: Neurobiology

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Editor-in-chief: Zheng Jiang, Department of Neuroscience, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Publication Type: Open Access Journal
Description: The brain, spinal cord, and nerves make up the nervous system. Together they control all the workings of the body. When something goes wrong with a part of your nervous system, you can have trouble moving, speaking, swallowing, breathing, or learning. You can also have problems with your memory, senses, or mood.