Multiple System Atrophy(MSA; Sporadic Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy; Shy-Drager Syndrome; Parkinson Plus Syndrome; Multi-system Degeneration; Multi-system Atrophy; Idiopathic Autonomic Failure; Idiopathic Orthostatic Hypotension;)
by
Patricia Griffin Kellicker, BSN DefinitionMultiple system atrophy (MSA) is a disorder of the nervous system. MSA is sometimes called a Parkinson plus syndrome because many of the symptoms are similar. There are different types MSA based on symptoms. Once symptoms develop, the average life expectancy is 10 years or less. CausesThe cause of MSA is unknown. Genetic factors may play a role in some families. The symptoms are caused by degeneration of nerves throughout the brain and spinal cord. These nerves control automatic functions like balance and muscle coordination. The damage to the nerve may be caused by a buildup of a specific protein, but this is not a confirmed cause.
Risk FactorsMSA tends to appear after 60 years of age. SymptomsSymptoms of MSA can vary greatly. Initial symptoms are similar to those of Parkinson's disease. These initial symptoms may also be determined by the type of MSA:
As the disease progresses, symptoms will cross over types and become more severe. Many will develop muscle coordination problems and need walking aids. Other problems that may exist across type include:
DiagnosisYou will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. An exam of the nervous system will also be done. You will likely be referred to a specialist. Tests may include:
Images may be taken of your bodily structures. This can be done with an MRI scan. Tests will also be done on your heart rate and blood pressure. These tests will help determine what is causing problems with your autonomic nervous system. Nerve impulses to your muscles may also be tested. TreatmentThere is no cure for MSA. Treatment will focus on managing the symptoms and supportive care. Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Options include the following: MedicationsVarious medications may be used to manage the symptoms of MSA. Medication may be given to:
Therapy
Dietary SupportDietary changes in salt and fluids may help manage orthostatic hypotension. Soft or pureed foods may be helpful with swallowing problems. A feeding tube may be needed in later stages of MSA. It will deliver nutrition directly to the stomach. PreventionThere are no known guidelines to prevent MSA since the cause is not clear. RESOURCES:National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke http://www.ninds.nih.gov The Multiple System Atrophy Coalition https://www.multiplesystematrophy.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Canadian Institutes of Health Research http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca Health Canada https://www.canada.ca References:
Multiple system atrophy. EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at:
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. Updated January 16, 2015. Accessed November 9, 2017.
Multiple system atrophy fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Multiple-System-Atrophy-Information-Page. Accessed November 9, 2017. Multiple system atrophy/Shy-Drager syndrome. Vanderbilt University Medical Center website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed November 9, 2017. NINDS multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Multiple-System-Atrophy-Orthostatic-Hypotension-Information-Page. Accessed November 9, 2017. NINDS olivopontocerebellar atrophy information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at:
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/All-Disorders/Olivopontocerebellar-Atrophy-Information-Page. Accessed November 9, 2017. Stefanova N. Translational therapies for multiple system atrophy: Bottlenecks and future directions. Auton Neurosci. 2017; doi: 10.1016/j.autneu.2017.09.016.
1/20/2015 DynaMed Plus Systematic Literature Surveillance
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: Fanciulli A, Wenning GK. Multiple-system atrophy. N Engl J Med. 2015;372(3):249-263.
Last reviewed November 2018 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimus Lukas, MD Last Updated: 1/20/2015 |
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