Clinical characterization of idiopathic sporadic ataxias
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Clinical characterisation of idiopathic sporadic ataxias
IRAS ID
222757
Contact name
Marios Hadjivassiliou
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 4 months, 1 days
Research summary
Cerebellar ataxia is a term referring to a group of disabling diseases that result in loss of balance and co-ordination, tendency to fall with sometimes wheelchair dependency, slurred speech and cognitive problems (e.g. learning difficulties). The estimated minimum prevalence of progressive cerebellar ataxia in the UK is 10/10000. Cerebellar ataxia can be caused by a number of different diseases some of which are genetic and while most are acquired. Despite extensive investigations at specialised ataxia centres up to 20% of patients with sporadic (no family history) ataxia are labelled as having idiopathic (no cause found) sporadic ataxia (ISA). A substantial number of these patients have evidence that their immune system may be responsible for the damage to the cerebellum (balance centre). This project will aim to collect all the relevant clinical information and imaging information relating to all patients with Idiopathic Sporadic Ataxia. Such information may allow the distinction between those patients that may have an autoimmune origin for their ataxia to those with other causes.
REC name
London - Hampstead Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/LO/0569
Date of REC Opinion
4 Apr 2017
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion