Ataxia is a general term for a group of neurological disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance. These disorders can be caused by a variety of diseases, including genetic, metabolic, infectious and traumatic conditions.
Genetic ataxias are caused by a mutation in a gene that affects the development or function of the brain or spinal cord. These genetic conditions include Friedreich's ataxia, spinocerebellar ataxia, and ataxia-telangiectasia.
Metabolic ataxias are caused by an inability to properly break down certain substances in the body. These metabolic conditions can include Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome, which is caused by a deficiency of thiamine (vitamin B1), and Refsum's disease, which is caused by an accumulation of certain fatty substances in the body.
Infectious ataxias are caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites that affect the nervous system. These include HIV-associated ataxia, which is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus, and Lyme disease-associated ataxia, which is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.
Traumatic ataxias are caused by a head injury or stroke that affects the brain's ability to control movement. These include traumatic brain injury and stroke-related ataxias such as post-stroke ataxia, which is caused by damage to the cerebellum.
In addition to these diseases, ataxia can also be caused by certain medications, nutritional deficiencies, and alcohol or drug use. It is important to speak with a doctor about any symptoms of ataxia in order to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment.