Abstract

Eight patients with Friedreich's ataxia showed profound reduction in the density of large myelinated fibers in sural nerve biopsies. The density of small myelinated fibers was normal, but the axonal size and myelin thickness were reduced. Demyelination, presumably secondary to axonal dysfunction, was observed in 3% of the isolated fibers. There was axonal degeneration, including dying-back axons isolated in three specimens, in 2.6% of the isolated fibers. The low incidence of degenerating fibers did not account for loss of myelinated fibers in children. There is probably a defect in maturation of fibers, followed by a dying-back process.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.