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Neuromuscular diseases

Multiple system atrophy (MSA)

A disease caused by the loss of nerve cells in the brain. Movement and balance are impaired. Automatic body functions such as blood pressure and the bladder are also affected.

Not part of the panel of Türkiye's National Newborn Screening Programme (heel-prick test). Source

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This page is translated from the Turkish original.

This disease is followed through the “Neuromuscular diseases” group.

Understanding the disease

This section has not yet been reviewed by a physician. It summarises patient information from sources such as MedlinePlus, Orphanet and the NHS in plain language. The disease can differ from person to person; talk to your doctor about diagnosis and treatment.

What happens in this disease?

In MSA, a protein forms clumps in the brain and spinal cord. These clumps damage the cells that control movement, balance and automatic body functions. There are two main types. In MSA-P, Parkinson-like symptoms stand out; in MSA-C, balance problems stand out. Symptoms usually begin after the age of 50.

Which symptoms can occur?

Symptoms vary from person to person; in some they progress slowly, in others quickly.

  • Dizziness and feeling faint on standing up
  • Frequent urination or being unable to pass urine
  • Erection problems in men
  • Slow, clumsy or unsteady movement
  • Slurred speech
  • Muscle stiffness and tremor
  • Sleep problems, snoring and noisy breathing
  • Difficulty swallowing and constipation

How is it diagnosed?

The diagnosis is made by a neurologist. There is no single specific test for MSA. The diagnosis is based on the symptoms and the speed of progression. Tests may be done to rule out other causes. In the early stage, it can look like Parkinson's disease.

Treatment and care

There is not yet a treatment that stops the progression of MSA; research is ongoing. Treatment aims to ease symptoms and preserve independence. Medicines can be used for dizziness and sleep problems. Speech therapy helps with swallowing and communication. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy make daily life easier. Care is planned together with the healthcare team. The doctor who follows the disease decides which treatment is suitable.

For the family: inheritance and genetic counselling

MSA is usually not inherited. It occurs without anyone else in the family being affected. There is no evidence that it passes from parents to children. Very rarely, cases running in families have been reported. Some gene differences may increase the risk. If you have questions, you can get genetic counselling.

Source: NHS: Multiple system atrophy (MSA) · MedlinePlus Genetics: Multiple system atrophy · Orphanet: Multiple system atrophy (ORPHA:102)

Key facts

How common is it?
Prevalence: 1-9 per 100 000 (Worldwide) · New cases per year: 1-9 per 100 000 (Worldwide)
When does it usually start?
Adulthood

These facts are taken from Orphanet and MedlinePlus records (last checked: October 7, 2026). Frequency values are approximate ranges.

You are not alone: patient associations in Türkiye

Non-profit patient and family organizations in Türkiye working on this disease or disease group. Links are for information; Doktorclub is not affiliated with these organizations and does not endorse them.

We could not find a patient association specific to this disease.

For all rare diseases: Nadir Hastalıklar Federasyonu

Support and help

Doktorclub does not diagnose, recommend treatments or refer you to hospitals or doctors. These pages are meant to help you talk with your doctor.

News about MSA

Clinical trials (ClinicalTrials.gov)

A clinical trial is a regulated study that tests whether a new treatment is safe and whether it works, in patients who volunteer. Most trials look for a certain age, genetic change and health condition. Taking part is voluntary.

This list is not a treatment recommendation. Treatments tested in phase 1–3 trials are investigational (experimental): their efficacy and safety have not yet been proven and they are not approved treatments. Taking part depends on each trial’s criteria and a physician’s assessment; the first step is to talk to the doctor who manages your care.

Questions you can ask your doctor

  • Could this trial be suitable for us?
  • If we take part, how would current treatment and check-ups be affected?
  • Where does the trial take place, and how are travel and accommodation handled?
  • What happens if we want to leave the trial?

ClinicalTrials.gov lists 53 active interventional studies for this disease. 33 are recruiting now; none has a site in Türkiye. Last checked: October 7, 2026.

Selected records (studies with a site in Türkiye first):

See all studies on ClinicalTrials.gov · Joining clinical trials

Neuromuscular diseases: other news

Medical codes (for talking with your doctor and finding sources)

These codes identify the disease in international classifications and databases. They can help when you talk with your doctor or look for reliable sources.

Orphanet code: ORPHA:102 · ICD-11 8D87.0

Codes checked against WHO ICD-11 and Orphanet on October 7, 2026.

This page provides general information and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your doctor about symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

The information on these pages is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. Talk to your doctor about diagnosis and treatment decisions. In an emergency in Türkiye, call 112.

Every update is based on an open source and labeled with its level of evidence. No advertising and no drug brand names. Our scientific principles

This page was translated from Turkish by the Doktorclub editorial team.