Immune-mediated ataxias are common. Advances in genetic testing have significantly improved the diagnostic yield of patients suspected of having a genetic ataxia. Making a diagnosis of the cause of ataxia is essential due to potential therapeutic interventions for immune and some genetic ataxias.

We present a case of concurrent cystic fibrosis (CF) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). To our knowledge this is the first reported coincidence of these two diseases. Although TDP-43 dysfunction has been linked to both pathologies, it does not appear to be pivotal in this individual who does not display TDP-43 mediated aberrant splicing of the CFTR gene or carry a mutation in the TARDBP gene. Alternative reasons for the coincidence are discussed including medication, infection, hypoxia and loss of function of the CFTR channel. Our findings await validation by others, but as the prognosis of CF improves then clinicians in both fields should be aware of the possibilities highlighted by this case.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract