Multiple system atrophy

Introduction

Multiple system atrophy is a disease of the nervous system that leads to premature death. It resultsin parts of the brain and spinal cord gradually becoming more damaged over time.

Italso causesagradual loss of brain cells from theautonomic nervous system the nervous system in charge of automatic functions we don't have to think about,like breathing and bladder control.

Thisresults ina wide range of symptoms, including the muscle control problems seen in Parkinson's disease .

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 4 Jan 2017

Articles for multiple system atrophy

Introduction

Multiple system atrophy is a disease of the nervous system that leads to premature death. It results in parts of the brain and spinal cord gradually becoming more damaged over time.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms usually start between 50 and 60 years of age, but can start any time after 30. Manydifferent functions of the body can be affected, including the urinary system, blood pressure control and m

What's the cause?

The cause of multiple system atrophy is not well understood. It doesnt appear to be inherited there's no evidence that an affected person's children will develop it. However, it's possible that bot

How common is multiple system atrophy?

Multiple system atrophy is estimated to affect around 5 in every 100,000 people worldwide. There are almost 3,000 people in the UK living with the disease.

How is it diagnosed?

There is no specific test to diagnose multiple system atrophy. A diagnosis can usually be made based on the symptoms, although it can potentially be confused with Parkinson's disease. The box on thi

How is it treated?

Unfortunately, there is nocure for multiple system atrophy and no way of slowing the disease's progression. People with multiple system atrophy typically live for six to nine years after symptoms sta

If you're a carer of someone with multiple system atrophy, it's important to remember that you're not alone and that there is support available. By law, you're entitled to a free health and social car

Support for patients

If you have been diagnosed with multiple system atrophy, your treatment and medical care will probably be the first thing on your mind. However, there are other aspects of your life to consider, and i

Information about you

If you have multiple system atrophy, your clinical team will pass information about you on to the National Congenital Anomaly and Rare Diseases Registration Service (NCARDRS). This helps scientists l

More information and support

Multiple System Atrophy Trust The Multiple System Atrophy Trust is the UK's main charity supporting people with the disease, as well as their families, carers and the health professionals treating t

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