Ataxia is a manifestation of a variety of disease processes, and an underlying aetiology needs to be investigated.

• Pure ataxia is rare in acquired ataxia disorders, and associated symptoms and signs almost always exist to suggest an underlying cause.
• The spectrum of hereditary degenerative ataxias is expanding
• Attention should be addressed to those treatable and reversible etiologies, especially potentially life-threatening causes.

• Ataxia can be the patient’s chief complaint or a component among other presenting symptoms.
• Ataxia is usually caused by cerebellar dysfunction or impaired vestibular or proprioceptive afferent input to the