Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) are a group of diseases characterized by neuronal degeneration in the cerebellum, pontine nuclei, and inferior olive. They are also referred to as spinocerebellar ataxias (SCA) or atrophies. Some also involve brain stem motor nuclei and/or cerebral cortex. All produce gait ataxia, and some also result in tremors, proprioceptive abnormalities, dysarthria, brain stem motor impairment, or dementia. Most are autosomal dominant in inheritance pattern. The primary cause of these hereditary ataxias also appears to be an unstable expansion of the polyglutamine trinucleotide repeat CAG, similar to Huntington's disease. Non-inherited, or sporadic OPCA, is now considered a form of multiple system atrophy (MSA).*
Spinocerebellar Degenerations
Rare Disorders :: Conditions and Diseases

NINDS: Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy - Information sheet compiled by National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.
Meta Description: [ Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy information sheet compiled by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). ]
NORD - Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy - Offers synonyms, a general discussion and further resources.
Meta Description: [ National Organization for Rare Disorders is dedicated to helping people with rare, orphan diseases. Rarediseases.org contains information on the prevention, treatment and cure of rare diseases. ]
Opca Awareness - A site devoted to Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy. It has links, personal stories and a discussion board.
Meta Description: [ Our goal is to create awareness. We hope to include: stories, links and helpful information. ]
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