Neurodegenerative Diseases: Multiple System Atrophy

Written by: Caroline Kim

September 7, 2024

In today’s piece on neurodegenerative disorders, we’ll discuss Multiple System Atrophy. The NIH defines this disease as “a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms that affect both the central nervous system… and the autonomic nervous system”. Multiple System Atrophy is a branch of a family of atypical parkinson's disorder and results in the deterioration of nerve cells in both the brain and spinal cords (National Institute of Health). According to the NIH, MSA is sporadic and rare considering it affects approximately 15,000 to 50,000 Americans. 

Symptoms of this condition resemble those of Parkinson’s disease, but progresses more rapidly. These symptoms of MSA include stiffness of muscles, tremors, clumsiness, bradykinesia, lightheadedness, and bladder control problems (Mayo Clinic Staff). There are two main categories of MSA (Multiple System Atrophy): Parkinson’s type MSA and Cerebellar type MSA. Parkinson’s MSA is associated with coordination problems and autonomic nervous system dysfunction such as digestion difficulty and sweating abnormalities (National Institute of Health). According to the NIH, “Cerebellar type MSA (MSA-C) is associated with balance and coordination problems (ataxia), difficulty swallowing, speech problems or a quivering voice, and abnormal eye movements”. In addition, those with MSA can develop dangerously high levels of blood pressure while lying down known as supine hypertension; they can also develop postural hypotension, which is a form of low blood pressure (Mayo Clinic Staff). According to Mayo Clinic, additional generalized symptoms of MSA include constipation, less sweating, poor body temperature control, sleep apnea, and difficulty controlling emotions. The parts of the brain most significantly affected by MSA are the Basal Ganglia, Brainstem, and Cerebellum; as each section of the brain is impacted more, the functions associated with that section also deteriorate (Mayo Clinic Staff). 

Genes related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and Parkinson’s related genes may influence MSA risk, but there is not a single gene that causes an individual to have MSA (National Institute of Health). Diagnosis of MSA may involve evaluating blood pressure and heart rate, bladder function, brain scans (MRI/PET/DaT), and medical history (National Institute of Health). While there isn’t a cure for MSA, there exists various treatments to slow the progression of the condition and alleviate symptoms. These treatment options include medications to help with blood pressure/motor function, speech therapy, and physical therapy (National Institute of Health). 

Sources:

1. National Institute of Health. “Multiple System Atrophy | National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.” Multiple System Atrophy, 19 July 2024, www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/multiple-system-atrophy. Accessed 03 Sept. 2024. 

2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Multiple System Atrophy.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 2 Aug. 2024, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/multiple-system-atrophy/symptoms-causes/syc-20356153. Accessed 02 Sept. 2024.