Bladder dysfunction in multiple system atrophy: with reference of the bladder as the initial presentation

Abstract

Up to 18% of multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients may start with bladder dysfunction alone without any other symptoms. In particular some men with MSA had undergone prostatic surgery before the correct diagnosis was made. In these patients, pathology may start at the sacral spinal cord first. MSA patients need regular check of their post-void residuals by an ultrasound echography. And when necessary, clean, intermittent catheterization (CIC) by the patients or their caregivers should start. Bladder dysfunction in MSA patients need special care for maximizing patients’ quality of life.