Phosphorus and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy in episodic ataxia type 2

Localized phosphorus (P-31) and proton (H-1) magnetic resonance spectroscop y was performed in the cerebellum and the occipital lobe of 6 patients with episodic ataxia type 2. From use of P-31 magnetic resonance spectroscopy, untreated patients showed decreased high-energy phosphate ratios in the cer ebrum, and increased pH in the cerebellum and cerebrum, which normalized un der acetazolamide. H-1 magnetic resonance spectra demonstrated high lactate peaks in 3 of the 6 patients. These metabolic alterations, probably induce d by the calcium channelopathy, may characterize episodic ataxia type 2.