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Senior Patient with Walker

What is Multiple System Atrophy

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, progressive neurological disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions like blood pressure, breathing, and digestion. It affects an estimated 20,000 people in the United States.

MSA NJ is dedicated to providing resources and support for people living with MSA, and their families. We strive to raise awareness and understanding of this rare disorder, and to help create a better future for those affected.

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About Multiple System Atrophy?

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder with no current cure. It is a form of parkinsonism and is characterized by the progressive degeneration of both the central and autonomic nervous systems. There are two main types of MSA: MSA-C (cerebellar type) and MSA-P (parkinsonian type).

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Most Common Symptoms of MSAMSA?

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Multiple System Atrophy presents differently in patients. Symptoms may include:

 

- Cerebella: gait disturbances, tremor, dysarthria, and difficulty with balance and coordination


- Parkinsonian: rigidity, bradykinesia, postural instability, and dysautonomia


- Autonomic: difficulty with bladder control, sleep disorders, orthostatic hypotension, and sexual dysfunction.

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MSA Diagnosis

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Due to the rareness of the disease, combined with the variation in presentation, diagnosis is challenging. After a taking a clinical history and performing a neurological examination, tests may include:

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  • autonomic testing (such as blood pressure control, heart rate control);

  • assessment of bladder function;

  • neuroimaging such as an MRI, PET scan, or DaTscan; and

  • HD-OCT

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Individuals with MSA typically do not have sustained improvement in their symptoms with levodopa (a commonly used Parkinson’s Disease medication), a result that may support the diagnosis of MSA. Diagnosis can only be confirmed upon autopsy.

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The Movement Disorder Society updated their Criteria for the Diagnosis of Multiple System Atrophy in 2022.

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MSA Treatment and Management

 

T is no cure for Multiple System Atrophy. Symptoms are treated, working with a team of medical professionals with relevant areas of specialty practices. These specialties may include:

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  • Neurologist

  • Cardiologist

  • Urologist

  • Gastroenterologist

  • Pulmonologist

 

Moreover, multiple therapies and support are recommended to provide practical strategies for daily living. These may include:

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  • Physical Therapy

  • Speech Therapy

  • Occupational Therapy

  • Nutritionist

  • Psychologist

  • Alternate Therapies (Music, Art, Dance, Pet, etc.)

  • Support Groups

 

Patients are encouraged to exercise, maintain a careful diet, utilize assistive devices, take medication as prescribed, and coordinate care among their medical professionals.

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Additional Information

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National Institute of Neurological Diseases & Stroke Information & Clinical Trials

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Multiple System Atrophy Coalition

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This information is intended for informational purposes only. Patients must confer with their treating physicians regarding their individual progress and management of MSA.

 

If any information on this page is in error or inappropriate and requires editing or removal, please report it immediately.

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