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PubMed This is a summary of 104 peer-reviewed journal articles Updated
Neurology

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)

At a Glance

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, progressive neurological disorder that impacts involuntary functions like blood pressure and motor control. Early symptoms often resemble Parkinson's disease. Comprehensive management requires a specialized care team and strong psychological support.

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, rapidly progressive neurological disorder. It affects the body’s involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, breathing, bladder function, and motor control. Because early symptoms often mimic Parkinson’s disease, reaching an accurate diagnosis can be a long and difficult journey.

This guide is designed to help you and your caregivers understand the biology of MSA, recognize its unique symptoms, build a specialized care team, and navigate the challenges ahead. Receiving a diagnosis of a rapidly progressing, incurable disorder is deeply distressing. It is important to remember that you are not alone. Seeking psychological support and connecting with patient advocacy groups, such as the MSA Coalition, can provide vital community support and resources.

01

Understanding Your MSA Diagnosis

Learn about Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) diagnosis. Understand the 2022 MDS criteria, the difference between MSA-P and MSA-C, and key symptoms to watch for.

02

Symptoms and Early Warning Signs of MSA

Learn the early warning signs of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Discover how autonomic failure, sleep disorders, stridor, and pain impact MSA progression.

03

The Biology of MSA and Why It's Often Misdiagnosed

Learn the biology behind Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) and why it's misdiagnosed as Parkinson's. Understand alpha-synuclein and how MSA affects the brain.

04

MSA-P vs. MSA-C: Understanding Your Subtype and Scans

Learn the differences between Multiple System Atrophy subtypes MSA-P and MSA-C. Understand what MRI, DAT, and PET brain scans reveal about your diagnosis.

05

Managing MSA Symptoms and Building Your Care Team

Learn how to manage Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) symptoms. Discover how to build a care team, treat orthostatic hypotension, manage bladder issues, and more.

06

Navigating the Future: Prognosis, Monitoring, and Palliative Care

Understand Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) prognosis and disease progression. Learn about UMSARS tracking, managing complications, and early palliative care.

Common questions in this guide

What is Multiple System Atrophy (MSA)?
Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare, rapidly progressive neurological disorder. It affects your body's involuntary autonomic functions, such as blood pressure, breathing, and bladder control, as well as your voluntary motor movements.
Why is MSA often misdiagnosed initially?
In its early stages, MSA frequently mimics the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Because the initial warning signs are so similar, reaching a definitive and accurate diagnosis can be a long and challenging process.
What are the different types of MSA?
The condition is generally categorized into two main subtypes: MSA-P and MSA-C. These classifications are based on your most prominent symptoms and specific findings on your brain scans.
Where can I find support after an MSA diagnosis?
Connecting with patient advocacy groups like the MSA Coalition is highly recommended. Additionally, seeking out a mental health professional who specializes in neurodegenerative diseases can provide vital emotional support for both you and your caregivers.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Curated prompts to bring to your next appointment.

  1. 1.What support groups or patient advocacy organizations, such as the MSA Coalition, do you recommend I connect with?
  2. 2.Can you refer me to a mental health professional who has experience working with patients facing neurodegenerative diseases?
  3. 3.What is the immediate next step in building my multidisciplinary care team?

Questions For You

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This page provides an educational overview of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). Because MSA is a complex and progressive condition, always consult your neurologist and multidisciplinary care team for personalized medical advice and symptom management.

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