Treatment Guidelines

There are no accepted therapies for SCA 1,2,3 and 6. While a number of “symptomatic” therapies have been tried, none has been determined to be definitely effective in treating ataxia. In addition, there is no proven neuroprotective strategy for the ataxias. In general, these patients require expert supportive care including adaptive rehabilitation.  Certain aspects of the disease such as extrapyramidal signs and upper motor neuron signs may be amenable to pharmacotherapy with gratifying results. Associated features such as pain, depression, sleep disturbance, dysphagia and sphincter difficulties all should be treated to improve quality of life. Genetic counseling of the patient and family also may be needed.