Multiple system atrophy is a degenerative neurological disorder. It is marked by a combination of symptoms affecting movement, blood pressure and other body functions; hence it is termed as "multiple system" atrophy.

In multiple system atrophy there is damage to autonomous nervous system with degeneration of nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. This cell degeneration causes problems with movement, balance and automatic functions of the body such as bladder control. However, the exact cause of MSA is unknown and no specific risk factors have been identified with it.

In some cases, a diagnosis of MSA can only be confirmed post-mortem. When brain tissue of a person with MSA is examined under a microscope, structures called glial cytoplasmic inclusion bodies are visible. These are also known as Papp Lantos bodies. These are the only significant findings which form the hallmark of MSA.

Multiple system atrophy presents with a wide range of symptoms including:

01 Orthostatic hypotension: low blood pressure when standing with dizziness, fainting or blurred vision.

02 Urinary disturbances: urgency, frequency, incomplete bladder emptying or an inability to pass urine (retention).