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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffMultiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurological disorder that impairs your body's involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, heart rate, bladder function and digestion. Formerly called Shy-Drager syndrome, the condition shares many Parkinson's disease-like symptoms, such as slowness of movement, muscle rigidity and poor balance.
Multiple system atrophy is a degenerative disease that develops in adulthood, usually in the 50s, and affects more men than women. The condition is gradually progressive and eventually leads to death.
Treatment for MSA includes medications and lifestyle changes to help manage symptoms.
- Santamaria J, et al. Multiple system atrophy and sleep. Sleep Medicine Clinics. 2008;3:337.
- Wein AJ. Lower urinary tract dysfunction in neurologic injury and disease. In: Wein AJ, et al., eds. Wein: Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/137596783-5/841660509/1445/62.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-7216-0798-6..50061-3_4358. Accessed May 14, 2009.
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- Low PA, et al. Management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: An update. The Lancet Neurology. 2008;7:451.
- NINDS multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/msa_orthostatic_hypotension/msa_orthostatic_hypotension.htm. Accessed May 14, 2009.
