Friedreich's Ataxia Causes & Risks

Causes

The cause of Friedreich’s ataxia is a mutation in the frataxin gene, which is located on chromosome 9q13. To develop this disease, a person must inherit a copy of the defective gene from each parent. However, most cases are sporadic, without family history of the disorder.

Risk Factors

There are no environmental risk factors. The disease is inherited.

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