What is MSA?

"MSA Information" was created for those with Multi System Atrophy (MSA), their loved ones, care givers, friends, and those interested in the disease. Most of the text I have printed here are direct quotes from other web sites so I don't give any false information! I have provided a bibliography or links for reference to the main articles.

"MSA is a sporadic, progressive, adult onset disorder characterized by autonomic dysfunction, Parkinsonism, and ataxia (a failure of muscular coordination) in any combination. The features of the disorder include:

• Parkinsonism - Striatonigral Degeneration
• Cerebellar or Corticospinal Signs - Sporadic Olivopontcerebellar Atrophy
• Orthostatic Hypotension, Impotence, Urinary Incontinence or Retention, usually preceding or within two years after the onset of the motor symptoms - Shy - Drager Syndrome

Parkinsonian and cerebellar features commonly occur in combination. However, certain features may predominate."  1

Some Statistics

• Occurs in men twice as often as women
• Usually occurs after the age of 50
• Average survival rate is 10 years although one can survive for many more years
• Prognosis is poorer with increasing severity of Autonomic problems