Episodic Ataxia and Autoimmunity

[Susan-Gabriel]

  
  Is episodic ataxia related in any way to an autoimmune problem?  I have a positive ANA (1:320) and have an elevated sed rate (ESR) that ranges between 55 and 105.
  Thanks for your time in answering my question.
  Susan
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There is a specific disorder called Episodic Ataxia, which has been found to be related to an abnormal calcium channel protein. Presumably, this abnormal membrane protein is expressed on neurons in the cerebellum, and under certain circumstances the cerebellum malfunctions because of that and you have episodes of incoordination. It's rare, and there is a genetic defect (on the same gene as one of the SpinoCerebellar Ataxias).
I am unaware of any link of EA specifically to autoimmune disease. Of course, autoimmune disease can cause a variety of neurologic symptoms. Ataxia could be among those, presumably.
The elevated ANA appears abnormal, as does the ESR. However, you are probably aware that rheumatologists use specific criteria for diagnosis of lupus, mixed connective tissue disease, Sjogren's syndrome, and so forth.
The only way to understand if there is a link between your laboratory data abnormalities and neurologic symptoms is to thoroughly review the story in person and examine you. The "ataxia" must be characterized by a neurologist who is thoroughly familiar with ataxia (often a movement disorders specialist), and consultation with a rheumatologist would be necessary to determine whether you have a connective tissue disease. Then perhaps the link can be established, if there is one.
I hope this helps. You are welcome to call 800 223-2273 and ask for neurology appointments at 4-5559. CCF MD mdf.