Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a combination of symptoms that affect both the autonomic nervous system (the part of the nervous system that controls involuntary action such as blood pressure or digestion) and movement.
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare, degenerative neurological disorder affecting your body's involuntary (autonomic) functions, including blood pressure, breathing, bladder function and muscle control.
MSA Life Expectancy (Prognosis) and Outlook. Prognosis is currently guarded. While multiple system atrophy patients have been reported to live as long as 18 years, most MSA patients passing away from the disorder or its complications within 9 years of diagnosisThe initial symptoms of MSA are often difficult to distinguish from the initial symptoms of Parkinson's disease and include:
slowness of movement, tremor, or rigidity (stiffness)
clumsiness or incoordination.
Impaired speech, a croaky, quivering voice. Certain complications of Ms. do exist and include:
Muscle complications such as stiffness and spasms.
Paralysis.
Bowel, bladder, or sexual dysfunction.
Changes in mental status (forgetfulness, mood swings, depression and others)
Epilepsy.
Osteoporosis - a condition where the bones become weak and fragile.
Pressure sores. Prognosis. MSA usually progresses more quickly than Parkinson's disease. The average remaining lifespan after the onset of symptoms in patients with MSA is 7.9 years. Almost 80% of patients are disabled within five years of onset of the motor symptoms, and only 20% survive past 12 years.