Multiple system atrophy: diagnostic methods and biomarkers

Abstract

Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a neurodegenerative disease belonging to a group of synucleinopathies and characterized by significant autonomic failure, parkinsonian syndrome, and cerebellar signs. Diagnostic criteria used currently were updated in 2022. While the clinical method and neuroimaging are typically diagnostic in MSA, new modalities are currently emerging. Novel candidate biomarkers are being intensively and thoroughly studied. The review analyzes the clinical picture and diagnostic criteria of the disease, describes imaging methods for diagnosing synucleinopathies, as well as known laboratory markers of multiple system atrophy.

Keywords

• multiple system atrophy
• parkinsonism
• biomarkers
• diagnosis