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Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Condition

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) is a progressive movement disorder characterized by problems with coordination, balance, speech difficulties, and involuntary eye movements, typically beginning in mid-to-late adulthood.

Description

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6) is a condition characterized by progressive problems with movement. People with this condition initially experience problems with coordination and balance (ataxia). Other early signs and symptoms of SCA6 include speech difficulties, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), and double vision. Over time, individuals with SCA6 may develop loss of coordination in their arms, tremors, and uncontrolled muscle tensing (dystonia).

Signs and symptoms of SCA6 typically begin in a person's forties or fifties but can appear anytime from childhood to late adulthood. People with this disorder may require walking or mobility assistance later in life.

Frequency

The worldwide prevalence of SCA6 is estimated to be less than 1 in 100,000 individuals.

Causes

Variants (also known as mutations) in the CACNA1A gene cause SCA6. The CACNA1A gene provides instructions for making a protein that forms a part of some calcium channels. These channels transport positively charged

Frequently Asked Questions

SCA6 is caused by variants in the CACNA1A gene and is a hereditary condition. This means it can be passed down through families. Genetic counseling can provide information on inheritance patterns and the risk for other family members or future offspring.
The first symptoms usually include problems with coordination and balance (ataxia), speech difficulties, involuntary eye movements (nystagmus), and double vision. These signs most commonly appear in a person's forties or fifties, though onset can range from childhood to late adulthood.
Over time, individuals may experience worsening coordination in their arms, tremors, and uncontrolled muscle tensing (dystonia). Many people with SCA6 eventually require walking or other mobility assistance to maintain independence.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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