Multiple system atrophy (MSA)

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Causes

By Mayo Clinic staff

There's no known cause for brain changes in multiple system atrophy. 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.

MSA 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.

Evaluation under a microscope of damaged brain tissue of people with MSA reveals nerve cells (neurons) that contain an abnormal amount of a protein called alpha-synuclein. Some research suggests that this protein may be overexpressed in multiple system atrophy.

Complications Symptoms
References
  1. Factor SA, et al. Multiple system atrophy: Prognosis and treatment. http://www.uptodate.com/index/home.html. Accessed March 22, 2011.
  2. Stefanova N, et al. Multiple system atrophy: An update. Lancet Neurology. 2009;8:1172.
  3. Multiple system atrophy. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/sec16/ch208/ch208d.html. Accessed April 5, 2011.
  4. Factor SA, et al. Multiple system atrophy: Clinical features and diagnosis. http://www.uptodate.com/index/home.html. Accessed April 6, 2011.
  5. NINDS multiple system atrophy information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/msa/msa.htm. Accessed April 5, 2011.
  6. 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 April 5, 2011
  7. Gilman S, et al. Second consensus statement on the diagnosis of multiple system atrophy. Neurology. 2008;71:670.
DS00989 July 2, 2011

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