Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a neurological disorder in which patients experience degenerative symptoms that can affect movement, speech, blood pressure and other bodily functions.

There are three types of MSA:

• Striatonigral degeneration (SND). Causes symptoms of parkinsonism, such as rigidity, slowed movements and tremors.
  
  
• Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA). Mostly affects muscle coordination and speech. Symptoms include a loss of balance, loss of coordination of the arms and legs, and slurred speech.
  
  
• MSA with orthostatic hypotension (formerly called Shy-Drager syndrome). Mostly affects the autonomic nervous system, which regulates involuntary body functions such as blood pressure and heart rate. Orthostatic hypotension (sudden drop in blood pressure with changing positions, such as upon standing) is common with this type of MSA.  

Symptoms can vary from person to person, as well as differ depending on the MSA type involved. Symptoms may also appear in a wide variety of combinations. MSA symptoms tend to occur in older adults and gradually get worse over a number of years. Although statistics vary, life expectancy after diagnosis of MSA is about 10 years.

The prevalence of MSA is unclear, although it is considered to be a relatively rare disorder. According to The Parkinson’s Institute, there are an estimated 25,000 to 100,000 people in the United States who have MSA. The cause of MSA remains unknown. Men aged 50 and older appear to have an increased risk of developing the disease.

There is no test that can definitively diagnose MSA. In order to diagnose MSA, a physician will likely compile a thorough medical history of the patient and perform a physical examination and neurological examination. The patient’s symptoms and the duration and severity of the symptoms will be discussed. In addition, certain other tests may help confirm a suspected diagnosis. This includes a tilt-table test, electromyography, blood tests, urine tests and imaging tests.

There is no known cure or way to prevent MSA. There is no specific therapy that can slow the progression of the disease. Treatment efforts are focused on relieving symptoms and enhancing quality of life. Medications, physical therapy and certain self-care measures are among the treatments used for symptoms of MSA.