WE MOVE
204 West 84th Street
New York, NY 10024
E-mail: wemove@wemove.org
wemove.org • mdvu.org

Stay Connected Research News Chat Discussion Forum Advocacy and Support Organizations Patient Meeting Calendar Movement Disorder Glossary Movement Disorders Virtual University Linkage Library
WE MOVE

Evaluation of Ataxia

The examination of a person with ataxia will likely include each of the following:

Thorough medical history, including questions regarding:

  • Onset of ataxia (acute vs. rapid vs. slow)
  • exposure to toxic substances, drugs, medications
  • recent viral illness
  • family history
  • autonomic symptoms, including control of blood pressure (problems with the autonomic system may suggest a diagnosis of multiple system atrophy)

Neurologic exam, for evidence of:

  • ataxic symptoms (examine all body regions)
  • additional neurologic signs, suggestive of secondary causes or specific diagnoses

Lab studies, including:

  • Imaging (for lesions, cerebellar atrophy, evidence of stroke, etc.)
  • Blood tests, especially for vitamins B12 or E deficiency, infection, metabolic syndromes, Wilson's disease
  • Urinalysis
  • Cerebrospinal fluid (for multiple sclerosis, infectious causes, neoplasm or paraneoplastic syndrome, inflammation)

Autonomic testing, when multiple system atrophy (MSA) is suspected

Genetic testing, when a family history indicates the patient likely has one of the inherited ataxias. Commercial genetic tests are available for the most common forms.