Fragile X–associated tremor/ataxia syndrome (FXTAS) is an “adult onset” neurodegenerative disorder, usually affecting males over 50 years of age. Females comprise only a small part of the FXTAS population, and their symptoms tend to be less severe. It can be misdiagnosed as a Parkinson-type disorder.

FXTAS affects the neurologic system and progresses at varying rates in different individuals. All individuals with FXTAS are carriers of what is called a “premutation” of the “Fragile X” (FMR1) gene.

For more information, see the National Fragile X Foundation website dedicated to FXTAS at http://www.fxtas.org/
http://www.fragilex.org/fragile-x-associated-disorders/fxtas/
http://fragilex.org.uk/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=DQ7iWJ2HKaw%3d&tabid=93