what is msa

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder that affects the central and autonomic nervous systems. It is characterized by a combination of symptoms that affect both the central nervous system, which controls how a person moves, and the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as blood pressure or digestion. MSA was formerly known as Shy-Drager syndrome, olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OCPA), or striatonigral degeneration. The initial symptoms of MSA can be difficult to distinguish from those of Parkinsons disease, and can include slowness of movement, tremor, or stiffness, clumsiness or lack of coordination, croaky, quivering voice, fainting or lightheadedness, and bladder control problems. MSA is one of a family of neurological disorders known as an atypical parkinsonian disorder. There are two types of MSA: parkinsonian and cerebellar, and the type depends on the symptoms present when diagnosed. MSA causes deterioration and shrinkage (atrophy) of portions of the brain that affect internal body functions and motor control. The brain cells of a person with MSA contain a protein called alpha-synuclein, which is thought to be responsible for damaging areas of the brain that control movement and autonomic functions.