Related degenerative nervous system diseases called MSA

Dr. Keith Roach

Question: I hope you can answer some questions about a disease called multiple system atrophy. What does it do to your body? Is the cause known? Is there a cure? — D.B.

Answer: Multiple system atrophy is a group of related degenerative diseases of the nervous system. All of them can cause any of three symptoms: ataxia (a specific type of loss of muscular coordination); Parkinsonism (the specific abnormal muscle control and rigidity that usually is seen in Parkinson’s disease); and problems with the autonomic nervous system (the part that regulates blood pressure on standing and bladder control, among many other functions).

MSA with predominant ataxia is also called “olivopontocerebellar atrophy”; MSA with predominant Parkinson’s features is also called “striatonigral degeneration”; and MSA with predominantly autonomic symptoms is also called “Shy-Drager syndrome.”

The cause is unknown, though there is promising research being done. Unfortunately, no medication treatment effectively slows or stops the progression of MSA. Treatment is used to help manage symptoms, and it may include physical therapy as well as medications. MSA is a rare condition, and few doctors are expert in it. I strongly recommend you contact The MSACoalition, an organization devoted to education, support and advocacy for MSA, at www.multiplesystematrophy.org.