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Causes
By Mayo Clinic staffMultiple system atrophy is associated with deterioration and shrinkage (atrophy) of portions of your brain (cerebellum, basal ganglia and brainstem) that regulate internal body functions, digestion and motor control.
There's no known cause for brain changes in MSA. Some researchers are studying whether there's an inherited component or environmental toxin involved in the disease process, but there's no substantial evidence to support these theories.
When damaged brain tissue of people with multiple system atrophy is evaluated under a microscope, nerve cells (neurons) that contain an abnormal amount of a protein called alpha-synuclein can be seen. Some research suggests that this protein may be overexpressed in multiple system atrophy.
- 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.
