The Two Main Types of MSA

MSA presents differently depending on which brain regions are most affected:

MSA-P (Parkinsonian type)

• Stiffness and rigidity

• Slowness of movement

• Tremor (often minimal or absent)

• Poor response to Parkinson’s medications

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MSA-C (Cerebellar type)

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• Severe balance and coordination problems

• Slurred or scanning speech

• Difficulty with fine motor tasks

• Frequent falls early in the disease

Many people experience overlap of both types as the disease progresses.