Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy

OPCA encompasses a group of neurodegenerative disorders affecting the cerebellum, pons, and inferior olives. Clinical features include progressive cerebellar ataxia, dysarthria, and pyramidal or extrapyramidal signs. Etiology may be sporadic or hereditary (spinocerebellar ataxias). Pathophysiology involves neuronal loss, gliosis, and atrophy of affected structures. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, MRI demonstrating pontocerebellar atrophy, and genetic testing. Management is supportive, focusing on physiotherapy, speech therapy, and symptomatic pharmacologic interventions; prognosis is progressive with variable life expectancy.