Read more about this disease, some with Classification – Types – Signs and symptoms – Genetics – Pathophysiology – Diagnosis – Screening – Prevention – Treatment and management – Cures and much more, some including pictures and video when available.
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder. MSA is associated with the degeneration of nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. This cell degeneration causes problems with movement, balance and autonomic functions of the body such as bladder control. The cause of MSA is unknown and no specific risk factors have been identified.[1] Around 55% of cases occur in men, with typical age of onset in the late 50s to early 60s.[2]
The overall prevalence of MSA is estimated at 4.6 cases per 100,000 people.[3]
MSA is characterized by a combination of the following:
When autonomic failure predominates, the term Shy-Drager syndrome is often used, although this term is no longer current, given the recent terminology changes which are explained below.
The most common first sign of MSA is the appearance of an “akinetic-rigid syndrome” (i.e. slowness of initation of movement resembling Parkinson’s disease) found in 62% at first presentation. Other common signs at onset include problems with balance (found in 22%), followed by genito-urinary problems (9%). For men, the first sign can be erectile dysfunction (unable to achieve or sustain an erection). Both men and women often experience problems with their bladders including urgency, frequency, incomplete bladder emptying or an inability to pass urine (retention). About 1 in 5 MSA patients will suffer a fall in their first year of disease.[2]
As the disease progresses three groups of symptoms predominate. These are:
Not all patients experience all of these symptoms.
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