PROFILE OF ANXIOUS SYMPTOMS IN PATIENTES WITH CEREBELLAR ATAXIA IN A CENTER OF NEUROLOGY AND NEUROSUGERY IN THE CITY OF SALVADOR, BAHIA-BRASIL: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

Abstract

Introduction: Cerebellar ataxia is an uncommon neurological pathology whose pathophysiological substrate is lesions in the cerebellum or in its connections. In some cases, ataxic gait, imbalance and changes in speech may be associated with affective signs such as anxiety symptoms. This relationship can further worsen the quality of life of these patients requiring an effective diagnostic approach. Aim: Identify the profile of anxiety symptoms in patients with cerebellar ataxia in a neurology and neurosurgery center in the city of Salvador, Bahia – Brazil, also analyzing sociodemographic data.  Methods: Analysis of medical records of patients diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia at the referral center. Among them, it was verified which ones present signs and symptoms of anxiety and/or diagnosis of Anxiety Disorder. In addition, the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) and the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) were applied to patients with no symptoms of anxiety , to assess the presence of anxiety sympyoms and their severity, respectively. Results: The sample consisted of 21 participants (all patients at the FNNIC Ataxia outpatient clinic from March to May 2021). Among the patients, 67% (n=14) had signs and symptoms of anxiety and 33% (n=7) did not. The most significant sociodemographic profile was female (61.9%), the predominant age being up to 39 years (47.7%). Conclusion: The epidemiological profile found in patients with cerebellar ataxia who also present with anxiety disorders were female (61.9%), aged up to 39 years old (47.7%), black race (38.1%), single (47.6%).