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Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy 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 Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy?Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? Organizations Related NINDS Publications and Information What is Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy? Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) refers to a group of ataxias characterized by progressive neurological degeneration affecting the cerebellum, the pons and the inferior olives. OPCA may be classified based on clinical, genetic, or neuropathological findings; thus, there are many classifications of the disorder. Among the different classifications there is wide variation in severity and age of onset. The symptoms of OPCA differ from person to person. Most patients experience difficulty with balance and coordination of the legs and arms (ataxia) and slurred speech (dysarthria). Other symptoms may include muscle spasms or weakness and stiffness of the muscles; numbness or tingling of the hands or feet; tremor (shaking) of the hand or arm; reduction or slowness of movements; loss of thinking and/or memory skills; difficulty controlling the bladder or bowels; and feeling faint when standing up. Some patients also have fatigue and/or trouble with sleep. Generally symptoms of OPCA begin in mid-adult life and progress slowly over the course of many years. Is there any treatment? What is the prognosis? What research is being done? National Ataxia Foundation (NAF)
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Related NINDS Publications and Information
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