Quiz Form

Question Date: 21/10/2023

Question: A 60-year-old man has had problems with REM sleep behavior disorder and central sleep apnea for at least 5 years. Over the past 2 years, he has developed progressive cerebellar deficits, orthostatic hypotension, symptoms suggestive of neurogenic bladder, and dry mouth<br><br>What is the most likely cause of his syndrome?

Options:

• Gluten ataxia
• Multiple system atrophy
• Spinocerebellar ataxia type 17
• Vitamin E deficiency

Correct Answer: Multiple system atrophy

Explaination: The most common nonhereditary degenerative ataxia is multiple system atrophy. The development of cerebellar andor parkinsonian signs is often preceded by the onset of REM sleep behavior disorder, central sleep apnea, or stridor, and the development of various types of autonomic dysfunction. Multiple system atrophy is progressive and generally associated with death within a mean disease time of 10 years

Reference: Pandolfo M, Manto M. Cerebellar and afferent ataxias. Continuum (Minneap Minn). 2013 Oct19(5 Movement Disorders)1312-43. doi 10.121201.CON.0000436158.39285.22. PMID 24092292.