Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare and complex neurological condition that affects a person’s body in many ways. It's often called a "multi-system" disease because it impacts the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and the body’s automatic functions, like blood pressure, digestion, and breathing.

MSA is a journey that is unique to each person, but it is generally categorised into two main types based on the first symptoms to appear: MSA-C (cerebellar) and MSA-P (parkinsonian)

Understanding MSA-P

Multiple System Atrophy - Parkinsonian type, or MSA-P, is the more common of the two main types of MSA in Australia. In this subtype, the first symptoms often closely resemble Parkinson's disease, a set of challenges known as parkinsonism. This can include a feeling of stiffness or rigidity, slowness of movement, and sometimes tremors. These symptoms are connected to the basal ganglia, a part of the brain that controls movement.

While MSA-P initially focuses on these challenges, over time, a person may also experience issues with their body's automatic functions and other coordination-related symptoms. Research suggests that MSA-P can have a more rapid initial motor decline compared to MSA-C, meaning it may progress more quickly in the early stages. Just like MSA-C, The "P" designation helps doctors better understand what to expect in the early stages and to guide initial symptom management.

Understanding MSA - C

Multiple System Atrophy - Cerebellar type, or MSA-C, is one of the two main types of MSA. In this subtype, the first symptoms often center around a lack of coordination and balance, a set of challenges known as ataxia. These symptoms are connected to the cerebellum, a part of the brain that controls our movement and equilibrium. This can make walking feel unsteady, affect our ability to speak clearly, and make it more difficult to swallow or perform fine motor tasks. While MSA-C initially focuses on these challenges, over time, a person may also experience issues with their body's automatic functions and other movement-related symptoms.

While research on the topic can sometimes be mixed, many studies and clinicians now consider MSA-C to be the more aggressive of the two subtypes, with a more rapid functional deterioration. However, despite this difference in initial progression, the overall life expectancy for both subtypes is similar. The "C" designation helps doctors better understand what to expect in the early stages and to guide initial symptom management. The diagnosis process for both MSA-C and MSA-P is generally the same, there is no single test, and it relies on a combination of a person's symptoms and ruling out other conditions.

The Puzzle of Diagnosis: Mimicking Diseases

• Parkinson's Disease: Similar motor symptoms like tremors and rigidity.

• Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP): Overlapping balance and movement issues.

• Pure Autonomic Failure (PAF): Shared autonomic dysfunction symptoms.

• Dementia with Lewy Bodies (DLB): Characterised by a decline in thinking and memory, with symptoms similar to Parkinson's.

• Corticobasal Degeneration: Comparable movement and coordination difficulties.

• Spinocerebellar Ataxias: Similar coordination and balance problems.

"By speaking clearly about MSA as its own disease, we can ensure that people receive the right care, support, and hope from a community that truly understands their unique journey. This is why we are dedicated to raising awareness and funds specifically for MSA."

MSA is not Parkinson's Disease

Disclaimer

The information on this website is provided for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site.