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Ataxia Telangiectasia Reviewed 07-01-2001 Get Web page suited for printing Email this to a friend or colleague Studies with patients Table of Contents (click to jump to sections) What is Ataxia Telangiectasia?Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations Related NINDS Publications and Information What is Ataxia Telangiectasia? Ataxia telangiectasia (A-T) is a rare, progressive, neurodegenerative childhood disease that affects the nervous system and other body systems. The first signs of the disease, which include lack of balance and slurred speech, usually occur during the first decade of life. The hallmarks of A-T are ataxia (lack of muscle control) and telangiectasias (tiny, red "spider" veins), which appear in the corners of the eyes or on the surface of the ears and cheeks soon after the onset of ataxia. Individuals with A-T are predisposed to leukemia and lymphoma and are extremely sensitive to radiation exposure. Many individuals with A-T have a weakened immune system, making them susceptible to recurrent respiratory infections. Other features of the disease may include mild diabetes mellitus, premature graying of the hair, difficulty swallowing ? which causes choking and/or drooling ? and slowed growth. Children with A-T usually maintain normal or above normal intelligence. Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) Children's Project
Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) Medical Research Foundation
Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) Project
National Ataxia Foundation (NAF)
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
National Institute of Child Health and Human
Development (NICHD) Related NINDS Publications and Information
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