Cardiac transplantation in Friedreich ataxia

J Child Neurol. 2012 Sep;27(9):1193-6. doi: 10.1177/0883073812448229. Epub 2012 Jun 29.

Abstract

In this article, we describe a 14-year-old boy with a confirmed diagnosis of Friedreich ataxia who underwent cardiac transplantation for left ventricular failure secondary to dilated cardiomyopathy with restrictive physiology. His neurological status prior to transplantation reflected early signs of neurological disease, with evidence of dysarthria, weakness, mild gait impairment, and limb ataxia. We review the ethical issues considered during the process leading to the decision to offer cardiac transplantation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Friedreich Ataxia / complications*
  • Heart Diseases / etiology*
  • Heart Diseases / surgery*
  • Heart Transplantation / methods*
  • Humans