Friedrich’s ataxia

Friedrich’s ataxia is a chronic progressing disease with ataxia as the main clinical sign. The disease transfers in autosomal recessive fashion. Morphologically, the degeneration of the posterior and lateral columns of the spinal cord is observed. Clinically, ataxia is the main symptom; both dynamic and static balance are disordered. Lower spastic paraparesis develops at late stages. Reducing tendon reflexes that disappear later are a characteristic symptom. Disorders of deep sensation is typical. Superficial sensation is not disordered. Another typical sign is a large-swinging nystagmus. No intellectual disorders are observed in the most cases. Skeletal changes such a Friedreich's foot and changes in the internal organs are typical. Average age of the first manifestation is 13. The disease progresses slowly. Average duration of the disease independent on age and onset is up to 16 years.The therapy is symptomatic.