Multiple system atrophy

Multiple system atrophy is a progressive neurodegenerative disease marked by autonomic failure and varying degrees of parkinsonism or cerebellar ataxia. Its defining pathology is the accumulation of alpha-synuclein in glial cells.

Alpha-synuclein: A protein abundant in neurons that can misfold and aggregate in several neurodegenerative diseases. Misfolded alpha-synuclein accumulates in glial cells in the characteristic pathology of this disease.
Multiple system atrophy-parkinsonian type: A multiple system atrophy subtype in which parkinsonism is the prominent movement disorder. This subtype features bradykinesia and rigidity, often with limited response to levodopa.
Parkinson's disease: A progressive neurodegenerative disease commonly causing bradykinesia, rigidity, and resting tremor. Early severe autonomic dysfunction and a limited levodopa response can favor multiple system atrophy.
Levodopa: A medication converted into dopamine in the brain and used to treat parkinsonian symptoms. A monitored trial may help, although benefit is often limited or short-lived.
Multiple system atrophy research: Scientific study of the causes, diagnosis, progression, and treatment of multiple system atrophy. Research aims to identify reliable biomarkers and treatments that slow neurodegeneration.
Oligodendrocyte: A central nervous system cell that produces myelin around neuronal axons. These glial cells develop the characteristic alpha-synuclein inclusions.
Multiple system atrophy-cerebellar type: A multiple system atrophy subtype in which cerebellar dysfunction is the prominent movement disorder. Gait and limb incoordination distinguish this presentation from parkinsonian-predominant disease.
Progressive supranuclear palsy: A neurodegenerative disorder marked by impaired vertical eye movements, postural instability, and parkinsonism. Its characteristic gaze palsy helps distinguish it from multiple system atrophy.
Tilt table test: A diagnostic test that measures cardiovascular responses as a person is tilted from lying to upright. It can document orthostatic blood-pressure changes when bedside measurements are inconclusive.
Neurofilament light chain: A neuronal structural protein whose levels in blood or cerebrospinal fluid can indicate axonal injury. Elevated levels may help distinguish this disease from some clinically similar disorders.

Linked from 8 pages