CANVAS an update: clinical presentation, investigation and management.

BACKGROUND

Cerebellar Ataxia with Neuropathy and bilateral Vestibular Areflexia Syndrome (CANVAS) is a multi-system ataxia which results in cerebellar ataxia, a bilateral vestibulopathy and a somatosensory deficit. This sensory deficit has recently been shown to be a neuronopathy, with marked dorsal root ganglia neuronal loss. The characteristic oculomotor clinical sign is an abnormal visually enhanced vestibulo-ocular reflex.

OBJECTIVE

To outline the expanding understanding of the pathology in this condition, as well as diagnostic and management issues encountered in clinical practice.

METHODS

Retrospective data on 80 CANVAS patients is reviewed.

RESULTS

In addition to the triad of cerebellar impairment, bilateral vestibulopathy and a somatosensory deficit, CANVAS patients may also present with orthostatic hypotension, a chronic cough and neuropathic pain. Management of falls risk and dysphagia is a major clinical priority.

CONCLUSIONS

CANVAS is an increasingly recognised cause of late-onset ataxia and disequilibrium, and is likely to be a recessive disorder.