Neuropsychological Deficits in Autosomal Dominant Cerebellar Ataxia: An Examination of Three Affected Family Members, One with Psychosis

Abstract

The association between autosom al dominant cerebellar ataxia (ADCA ) and psychosis is little understood. A family was identified with three m ale m embers with AD CA , one of w hom suffered from a psychotic illness. D etailed neuropsychological testing was undertaken. The aim was to provide a detailed profile of these cases of ADCA , describing preserved abilities and cognitive deficits associated with this condition. It was intended to examine whether distinct differences in profile were apparent between the psychotic and nonpsychotic family members. There were three principal findings. (1) One case, ten years after Requests for reprints should be sent to Dr Nicola S. Gray,