[Multiple system atrophy: an analytic study of 20 cases].

An analytic study was made on 20 cases of multiple system atrophy. The patients included OPCA 12, SND 3, and SDS 5. This study showed that in 90% of the cases, the symptom began in middle life. Both sexes affected similarly and the mean course was about 5 years. Approximately three years after the appearance of the primary symptom, the features of other central nervous system lesions were presented. Comparative study of clinical features of the three types repealed the following: Cerebellar symptom: OPCA greater than SDS greater than SND. Symptoms and signs of extrapyramidal system: SND greater than SDS greater than OPCA, autonomic dysfunction: SDS greater than OPCA greater than SND.