ataxia
Pronunciation: uh-TAK-see-uh
Lack of muscle coordination affecting movement, balance, and speech.
Full Definition
Ataxia refers to a neurological condition characterized by lack of muscle coordination that affects voluntary movements. The condition can involve gait disturbances, poor balance, tremor, and difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or buttoning clothes. Ataxia can result from damage to the cerebellum, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves, and may be hereditary or acquired. Different types include cerebellar ataxia (coordination problems), sensory ataxia (proprioceptive loss), and vestibular ataxia (balance issues). The term is derived from Greek meaning 'without order.'
Usage
Usage note: Not to be confused with apraxia (inability to perform learned movements).
In Context
- "The patient presented with progressive cerebellar ataxia and dysarthria." — neurological examination
- "Genetic testing confirmed spinocerebellar ataxia type 3." — diagnostic workup