Overview of ataxias in children

Abstract

In children, ataxia may be caused by a wide number of hereditary or acquired diseases. The prevalence varies signifi cantly in causes between pediatric and adult ataxia. Pediatric ataxia may be classifi ed as acute, progressive, nonprogressive, intermittent, and episodic. Cerebellar dysfunction is the leading cause of pediatric ataxia, while sensory (afferent) and vestibular ataxias are less common in children. A careful history and neurological examination are essential in classifying pediatric ataxia based on the course of symptoms and involved systems and narrowing the differential diagnosis. Neuroimaging plays a key role in the further work-up of pediatric ataxia and may be diagnostic or allow planning targeted further investigations.