Currently, various genes corresponding to numerous complex phenotypes, such as spinocerebellar ataxias, spastic paraplegias and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are associated with SPG7, SPG11, PNPLA6, KIF1C and SETX, and they may be inherited as both autosomal dominant and recessive traits (KIF1A, REEP2, AFG3L2, SETX). In clinical practice, it becomes problematic whether the identified gene variant should be classified as corresponding to a new phenotype or if it “fits” the patient’s genotype consistent with the previous clinical diagnosis. The gene discussed is SPG11; the disease is cerebellar ataxia.