What are the types of episodic ataxia syndrome?

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What are the types of episodic ataxia syndrome?

To date, at least eight different episodic ataxia types (syndromes) have been identified. Experts have identified3e gene mutations associated with several, including:

  • Episodic ataxia type 1 (EA1): Changes to the KCNA1 gene cause EA1. Symptoms of this EA syndrome, which often begins in early childhood, include twitching or stiff muscles. There is sometimes a link between episodic ataxia 1 and epilepsy.
  • Episodic ataxia type 2 (EA2): Changes to the CACNA1A gene cause EA2, the most common type of episodic ataxia. Nystagmus is a common symptom of EA2, which often begins in childhood or early adolescence.

In people with EA1 and EA2, certain behaviors or conditions may bring on episodes. These include:

  • Emotional stress.
  • Physical stress.

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