Multiple system atrophy - cerebellar subtype (MSA-C) is a rare disease that causes areas deep in the brain, just above the spinal cord, to shrink (atrophy). MSA-C used to be known as olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA).

MSA-C; Cerebellar multiple system atrophy; Olivopontocerebellar atrophy; OPCA; Olivopontocerebellar degeneration

MSA-C can be passed down through families (inherited form). It can also affect people without a known family history (sporadic form).

Researchers have identified certain genes that are involved in the inherited form of this condition.

The cause of MSA-C in people with the sporadic form is not known. The disease slowly gets worse (is progressive).

MSA-C is slightly more common in men than in women. The average age of onset is 54 years old.

Symptoms of MSA-C tend to start at a younger age in people with the inherited form. The main symptom is clumsiness (ataxia) that slowly gets worse. There may also be problems with balance, slurring of speech, and difficulty walking.

Other symptoms may include:

• Abnormal eye movements
• Abnormal movements
• Abnormal sweating
• Bowel or bladder problems
• Difficulty swallowing
• Cold hands and feet
• Lightheadedness when standing
• Headache while standing that is relieved by lying down
• Muscle stiffness or rigidity, spasms, tremor
• Nerve damage (neuropathy)
• Problems in speaking and sleeping due to spasms of the vocal cords
• Sexual function problems

There is no specific treatment or cure for MSA-C. The aim is to treat the symptoms and prevent complications. This may include:

• Tremor medicines, such as those for Parkinson disease
• Speech, occupational and physical therapy
• Ways to prevent choking
• Walking aids to help with balance and prevent falls
• Devices to treat sleep apnea (such as CPAP)
• Treatment for low blood pressure

More information and support for people with MSA-C and their families can be found at:

• Defeat MSA Alliance -- defeatmsa.org/patient-programs/
• The MSA Coalition -- www.multiplesystematrophy.org/msa-resources/

MSA-C slowly gets worse, and there is no cure. The outlook is generally poor. But, it may be years before someone is very disabled.

Complications of MSA-C include:

• Choking
• Infection from inhaling food into the lungs (aspiration pneumonia)
• Injury from falls
• Nutrition problems due to difficulty swallowing

Contact your health care provider if you have any symptoms of MSA-C. You will need to be seen by a neurologist. This is a doctor who treats nervous system problems.

Published Date: April 25, 2022
Published By: Joseph V. Campellone, MD, Department of Neurology, Cooper University Hospital, Camden, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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