1 . The time course ot ataxia helps narrow the d ifferential diagnosis. Acute
ataxias usually are due to acute bra i n i nj ury (trauma, i nfarct, bleed), intoxication,
infection, inflammation/autoim mune reactions (vascul itis, para neoplastic),
or migraine. Chronic ataxias usually are caused by congenital malformations,
sequelae of brain i njury (post-stroke, cerebral palsy, trauma!, multiple sclerosis,
brain tumors, or genetic diseases ( Friedreich's, ataxia-telangiectasia).
2. Evaluation of ataxia includes coordination testing and sensory testing.
a. F inger-nose-finger: The patient is asked to use the i ndex finger to alternately
touch his/her nose and the examiner's outstretched fi nger