Neurodegenerative diseases: The spinocerebellar ataxia type 7 in Mexico Enfermedades neurodegenerativas: La ataxia espinocerebelosa tipo 7 en México

The spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a group of neurodegenerative diseases that have a genetic origin. Some are caused by a mutation in a gene that lead to the production of an abnormal protein called ataxin, a transcription factor that tends to form inclusions in the nucleus and cytoplasm of the cell. This alteration has been associated with the clinical and pathological manifestations of this disease. However, little is known about these diseases in many Latin American countries. Objective: The purpose of this review is to present the current state of research on SCAs, its classification, and to describe a Mexican family diagnosed with SCA type 7 (SCA7), to understand its history and genealogy. Method: Searches of the PUBMED databases and files of the Instituto de Rehabilitacion para las Ataxias en Mexico (IRAM) were performed. Conclusion: Because it is important to describe the prevalence and frequencies of the SCAs in other states of Mexico, it is necessary to support research in this area, especially in government health institutions.