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What is Multiple System Atrophy?
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) refers to three slowly progressive
related disorders that affect the central and autonomic nervous
systems. The disorders are characterized by their foremost
symptoms: olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA), which primarily
affects balance, coordination, and speech; a parkinsonian form
(striatonigral degeneration), which can resemble Parkinson’s disease
because of slow movement and stiff muscles; and a form with
predominant autonomic nervous system involvement (formerly
Shy-Drager syndrome, now called MSA with orthostatic
hypotension). In all three forms of MSA, the patient can have
orthostatic, or postural, hypotension - an excessive drop in blood
pressure when the patient stands up, which causes dizziness or
momentary blackouts. Other symptoms may include stiffness
and rigidity, loss of balance and coordination, impaired speech,
breathing and swallowing difficulties, blurred vision, male
impotence, constipation, and urinary difficulties. Most patients
develop dementia late in the course of the disease, which is
usually diagnosed in persons over age 50. MSA is twice as
common in men as in women.
Is there any treatment?
There is no specific treatment for nerve degeneration in MSA.
What is the prognosis?
MSA is a progressive disorder and most patients have a life
expectancy after diagnosis of about 10 years or less.
What research is being done?
The NINDS (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and
Stroke) carries out and funds studies of basal ganglia and
cerebellar degeneration and autonomic nerve system dys-
function, including Multiple System Atrophy. This research is
aimed at obtaining a better understanding of these diseases and
finding ways to treat, cure, and ultimately, prevent them.
This information copied with permission from the National Institute
of Neurological Disorders & Stroke under public domain
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