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Multiple system atrophy

• Overview
• Symptoms
• Treatment

Definition:

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare degenerative condition that causes symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease . However, patients with MSA have more widespread damage to the autonomic nervous system, the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary functions.

Alternative Names:

Shy-Drager syndrome; Neurologic orthostatic hypotension; Shy-McGee-Drager syndrome; Parkinson's plus syndrome

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

MSA is characterized by the following:

• Progressive damage to the nervous system, leading to low blood pressure when standing, difficulty urinating, and abnormal breathing during sleep
• Muscle tremor and rigidity
• Slow movement
• Disrupted REM sleep patterns

The cause is unknown. MSA develops gradually and is most often diagnosed in men older than 60.

• Review Date: 11/21/2006
• Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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