NINDS Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy Information Page

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What is Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy?

Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) is a term that describes the degeneration of neurons in specific areas of the brain – the cerebellum, pons, and inferior olives.  OPCA is present in several neurodegenerative syndromes, including inherited and non-inherited forms of ataxia (such as the hereditary spinocerebellar ataxia known as Machado-Joseph disease) and multiple system atrophy (MSA), with which it is primarily associated.  http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/msa/msa.htm

OPCA  may also be found in the brains of individuals with prion disorders and inherited metabolic diseases.  The characteristic areas of brain damage that indicate OPCA can be seen by imaging the brain using CT scans or MRI studies. 

 

 

NIH Patient Recruitment for Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy Clinical Trials

• At NIH Clinical Center
• Throughout the U.S. and Worldwide

Organizations

National Ataxia Foundation (NAF) 2600 Fernbrook Lane North Suite 119 Minneapolis, MN   55447-4752 naf@ataxia.org http://www.ataxia.org Tel: 763-553-0020 Fax: 763-553-0167

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) P.O. Box 1968 (55 Kenosia Avenue) Danbury, CT   06813-1968 orphan@rarediseases.org http://www.rarediseases.org Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673) Fax: 203-798-2291

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Last updated October 17, 2008