Ataxiás

Ataxiás, often written as ataxia in English, is a neurological sign characterized by impaired voluntary coordination of muscle movements. It arises from dysfunction of the cerebellum and its connections, or from disturbances in sensory pathways, and can affect gait, limb movements, stance, speech, and eye movements. It is a symptom rather than a disease, and its onset can be acute, subacute, or chronic.

There are several clinical forms of ataxiás. Cerebellar ataxia involves incoordination, dysmetria, and intention tremor, with a broad-based, unsteady gait. Sensory ataxia results from loss of proprioceptive input, often causing a wide-based gait that worsens when vision is removed (positive Romberg test). Vestibular ataxia stems from dysfunction of the inner ear or its neural pathways, presenting with vertigo and imbalance. Patients may also have dysarthria, nystagmus, and limb incoordination, depending on the affected pathways.

Causes are diverse and include inherited neurodegenerative disorders (such as spinocerebellar ataxias), acquired conditions (stroke, tumors, multiple sclerosis), chronic alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies (notably B12 and thiamine), autoimmune or inflammatory diseases, infections, infections, and certain medications. Acute ataxia can follow head injury or intoxication, while progressive ataxia may reflect a genetic syndrome or chronic disease.

Diagnosis combines clinical examination with targeted testing: neurological assessment for coordination and eye movements, MRI of the brain to assess cerebellar structures, genetic testing for hereditary ataxias, and laboratory evaluation to identify reversible causes like nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune processes.

Management is focused on addressing underlying causes when possible and on symptom control through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive devices. Prognosis varies by etiology and may range from reversible symptoms to progressive disability.