Question: What is (are) ataxia with vitamin E deficiency ?
Answer: Ataxia with vitamin E deficiency is a disorder that impairs the body's ability to use vitamin E obtained from the diet. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means that it protects cells in the body from the damaging effects of unstable molecules called free radicals. A shortage (deficiency) of vitamin E can lead to neurological problems, such as difficulty coordinating movements (ataxia) and speech (dysarthria), loss of reflexes in the legs (lower limb areflexia), and a loss of sensation in the extremities (peripheral neuropathy). Some people with this condition have developed an eye disorder called retinitis pigmentosa that causes vision loss. Most people who have ataxia with vitamin E deficiency start to experience problems with movement between the ages of 5 and 15 years. The movement problems tend to worsen with age.
Source: GHR

Question: How many people are affected by ataxia with vitamin E deficiency ?
Answer: Ataxia with vitamin E deficiency is a rare condition; however, its prevalence is unknown.
Source: GHR

Question: What are the treatments for ataxia with vitamin E deficiency ?
Answer: These resources address the diagnosis or management of ataxia with vitamin E deficiency: - Gene Review: Gene Review: Ataxia with Vitamin E Deficiency - Genetic Testing Registry: Ataxia with vitamin E deficiency - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Retinitis pigmentosa - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Vitamin E These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care
Source: GHR