Multiple system atrophy

What is multiple system atrophy?

Also known as MSA, it is a rare degenerative neurological disorder, which affects the autonomic (involuntary) functions of the body.

They may be affected, for example

  • Blood pressure
  • Breathing
  • Bladder function
  • Motor control

We can divide the disease into two main types: parkinsonian and cerebellar multiple system atrophy.

Prognosis of the disease

The evolution of the disease may vary, but it does not stop, so that day-to-day activities become more complicated with the passage of time. Patients usually live 7 to 9 years after diagnosis of the disease.

The pathology shares many of the signs of Parkinson’s disease.

Symptoms of Multiple System Atrophy

The pathology shares many of the signs of Parkinson’s disease and, depending on the symptomatology, is divided into the two groups mentioned above.

Parkinsonian type symptoms (the most common):

  • Difficulty bending arms or legs.
  • Slowness of movement
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Balance and posture problems
  • Tremors

Cerebellar type symptoms

  • Slurred or very low voice
  • Visual disturbance (blurred vision)
  • Coordination problems (ataxia)
  • Difficulty swallowing or chewing

The two types of multiple system atrophy share the same main symptom: postural hypotension. In addition, psychiatric, cardiovascular, sexual, sleep disorders, urinary and bowel dysfunction or sleep problems may also be detected.

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Medical tests for multiple system atrophy

MSA is generally diagnosed in males over 60 years of age. Although there are no specific tests, it is usually performed:

  • MRI of the head
  • Urine test
  • Plasma norepinephrine levels.

The eyes, nerves, and muscles will also be checked, symptoms will be reviewed, and other possible causes will be excluded.

What are the causes of multiple system atrophy?

The cause of the pathology is still unknown, although it is being investigated whether it may be caused by a hereditary component or an environmental toxin.

Can it be prevented?

At present there is no known way to prevent multiple system atrophy.

Treatments for multiple system atrophy

There is currently no cure for the pathology, nor is there a treatment to prevent it from worsening. To control MSA, some medications can be used that will be prescribed by the specialist (although they do not work in all cases).

On the other hand, a programmed pacemaker can increase blood pressure for some patients.

Which specialist treats it?

Multiple system atrophy should be treated by a specialist in Neurology.