Introduction
Ataxia is a clinical symptom characterized by a lack of coordination in the voluntary movements of the limbs, trunk, and/or head. It can be caused by a variety of neurological and metabolic disorders, including inherited metabolic disorders. In this article, we will discuss the inherited metabolic disorders that present with ataxia.
Inherited Metabolic Disorders Presenting with Ataxia
Ataxia can be caused by a variety of inherited metabolic disorders. These include lysosomal storage disorders, mitochondrial diseases, endocrine diseases, and amino acid and organic acid disorders.
Lysosomal Storage Disorders
Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of inherited metabolic disorders caused by an enzyme deficiency that results in the buildup of toxic substances in the cells. These disorders can cause ataxia, as well as other symptoms such as cognitive impairment, vision loss, seizures, and hearing loss. Examples of lysosomal storage disorders include Gaucher disease, Niemann-Pick disease, and Fabry disease.
Mitochondrial Diseases
Mitochondrial diseases are caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA and can lead to ataxia, as well as other neurological symptoms such as seizures, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairment. Examples of mitochondrial diseases include Leigh syndrome and Kearns-Sayre syndrome.
Endocrine Diseases
Endocrine diseases are caused by a deficiency or excess of one or more hormones. These disorders can cause ataxia, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and changes in blood pressure. Examples of endocrine diseases that can cause ataxia include hypothyroidism and Addison's disease.
Amino Acid and Organic Acid Disorders
Amino acid and organic acid disorders are caused by an enzyme deficiency that leads to the buildup of toxic substances in the body. These disorders can cause ataxia, as well as other symptoms such as cognitive impairment, seizures, and muscle weakness. Examples of amino acid and organic acid disorders that can cause ataxia include phenylketonuria (PKU) and propionic acidemia.
Conclusion
Ataxia can be caused by a variety of inherited metabolic disorders, including lysosomal storage disorders, mitochondrial diseases, endocrine diseases, and amino acid and organic acid disorders. It is important to be aware of these disorders and their associated symptoms in order to properly diagnose and treat them.