Friedreich's Ataxia Program
If you've learned your child has the progressive condition called Friedreich's ataxia (FA), we are here for you. Our team of experts at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) will provide the support, answers and advanced treatment options you and your child need. Our program is part of the Friedreich’s Ataxia Center of Excellence, a first-of-its-kind collaboration of leading experts committed to advancing research and clinical care to improve the lives of all individuals with FA. We see more children and young adults with this rare neurogenetic condition than any program in the world, and patients come to us from all over the world. Each member of our team is knowledgeable in providing comprehensive care, from initial diagnosis through long-term disease management.
How we serve you
At CHOP's Friedreich's Ataxia Program, your child's team has expertise in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. They are also involved in developing better ways to treat this condition. We offer patients the opportunity to participate in clinical studies and to benefit from research advances.
Conditions we treat
At the Friedreich's Ataxia Program, we follow up to 300 patients per year with Friedreich's ataxia (FA), a rare, progressive neurogenetic condition found in approximately 1 in 50,000 people.
Why choose us for Friedreich’s ataxia care
At CHOP, children have access to top-notch clinical care and cutting-edge research opportunities in one place. We are uniquely equipped to provide the specialized care of patients with this rare, complex disease.
Meet your team
Our team of Friedreich's ataxia experts provides comprehensive care, from initial diagnosis and testing through long-term disease management.
Our locations
You can visit staff from the Friedreich's Ataxia Program at both the Buerger Center for Advanced Pediatric Care and Main Hospital at our Philadelphia campus.
Our research
We are involved in natural history studies and clinical trials. Our goal is to advance clinical care, research and treatment options in FA.
Our resources
We have created resources to help you find answers to your questions and feel confident with the care you are providing your child.
Patient stories
FDA Approves First Drug for Friedreich’s Ataxia
The Friedreich’s Ataxia Center of Excellence at CHOP was a lead study site for the clinical trial that led to the approval of the first-ever treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia (FA).
Clinical management guidelines for Friedreich's ataxia
These clinical guidelines were created to help doctors and families understand and manage the symptoms and issues related to the diagnosis and treatment of Friedreich’s ataxia.
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