Definition:
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a degenerative neurological disorder. Multiple system atrophy is associated with the degeneration of nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. This cell degeneration causes problems with movement, balance and autonomic functions of the body such as bladder control. The cause of multiple system atrophy is unknown and no specific risk factors have been identified except for saxitoxin produced by the dinoflagellates. Around 55% of cases occur in men, with typical age of onset in the late 50s to early 60s.
Symptoms:
multiple system atrophy is characterized by a combination of the following:
autonomic dysfunction
parkinsonism (such as muscle rigidity +/ tremor and slow movement)
ataxia (such as Poor coordination / unsteady walking)
The most common sign of MSA is the appearance of an "akinetic-rigid syndrome" (i.e. slowness of initiation of movement resembling Parkinson's disease). Other common signs at onset include problems with balance (found in 22%), followed by genito-urinary problems (9%). For men, the first sign can be erectile dysfunction (unable to achieve or sustain an erection). Both men and women often experience problems with their bladders including urgency, frequency, incomplete bladder emptying or an inability to pass urine (retention). About 1 in 5 MSA patients will suffer a fall in their first year of disease.
Multiple system atrophy usually progresses more quickly than Parkinson's disease. The remaining lifespan after the onset of symptoms is on average about 9 years. Almost 80% of patients are disabled within 5 years of onset of the motor symptoms, and only 20% survive past 12 years. Rate of progression differs in every case and speed of decline may vary widely in individual patients.
Neural Stem Cell Transplantation Treatment:
One strategy in treating ALS is to use stem cells to replace lost spinal motor neurons. Neural stem cells could generate large quantities of motor neurons that can be used for restoring neural functions directed by chemokines. Additionally, we use traditional Chinese medicines to modulate patients metabolism process. Many patients showed higher Multiple system atrophy Rating Scale than before.
