The symptoms are caused by degeneration of structures in the cerebellum and spinal cord responsible for coordination and muscle movement and some sensory functions.
Symptoms generally begin in childhood and before puberty.
Abnormal muscle control and tone lead to spinal changes and scoliosis or kyphoscoliosis may develop. Heart disease may develop and progress into heart failure . Death may result from heart failure or dysrhythmias that will not respond to treatment. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.