Multiple System Atrophy
Background
Multiple System Atrophy is a neurological disorder caused by degeneration of cells in certain areas of the brain. These control a number of different body systems; hence the name of the disorder. Damage to them affects functions of the autonomic nervous system (that normally occur automatically, such as control of blood pressure, sweating, bladder function, temperature regulation) and the motor system (such as muscle activation, movement and balance). MSA affects both men and women.