Fact 11. The Diagnostic Challenge: MSA and Its Mimics
Diagnosing MSA can be a challenging process. The symptoms of MSA can mimic several other neurodegenerative disorders, particularly in the early stages of the disease. This overlap in symptoms often leads to misdiagnosis, with Parkinson’s disease being a common incorrect initial diagnosis.
The similarities between MSA and other conditions are not just superficial. At a biological level, MSA shares several characteristics with diseases like Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia. For instance, all these conditions involve the abnormal accumulation of the protein alpha-synuclein in the brain.
However, while the symptoms may look similar, the underlying disease process and progression can be quite different. This is why getting an accurate diagnosis is crucial. It impacts treatment decisions, prognosis, and overall disease management. (11)
