Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare and always terminal degenerative neurological disorder characterized by a combination of Parkinsonism, cerebellar or corticospinal signs, pyramidal signs, and autonomic dysfunction .

Other terms have been used to refer to this disorder, based on the predominant systems presented. These terms and their distinctions have been dropped in recent (1996 onwards) medical usage, but are presented here for clarity:

• Shy-Drager syndrome (SDS) type - dominance of symptoms of autonomic failure
• Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) type - predominating cerebellar signs
• Striatonigral degeneration (SND) type - predominating Parkinson's-like symptoms

External links

• The Sarah Matheson Trust, a UK registered charity providing information about this symptom.
• NWU's material on MSA for medical students & neurology residents, with references.
• MSA information and diagnostic criteria from the Canadian Movement Disorder Group.