A Comprehensive Review and Evaluation of the Diagnostic Methods of a Multiple System Atrophy Diagnosis

Multiple System Atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder, characterized by the accumulation of α-synuclein in oligodendrocytes, often misdiagnosed with Parkinson's Disease (PD) due to overlapping symptoms. This study reviews the diagnostic methods used for MSA and discusses their benefits and how they can be improved for future research. Through a comprehensive search of the current literature, utilizing PubMed and Google Scholar, I analyzed and compiled numerous research articles for their relevance and content. Current diagnostic methods include diagnostic criteria, biomarkers, and genetic screening; these methods allow clinicians to identify individuals with MSA from healthy individuals. However, there is not yet substantial research toward concrete guidelines distinguishing MSA from other disorders. While several promising techniques are being studied, they have primarily addressed identifying a movement disorder. Accurately diagnosing MSA does not stop there: studies must also be consistent in measuring data from MSA and PD patients to establish categorical use. Generally, studies have found that MSA symptoms present more severely, but concrete numbers should be developed in order to categorize a patient as MSA, PD, or some other disorder. Should clinicians come across a patient with a movement disorder, data taken from the patient must point to either MSA or PD. Further exploring these methods will help identify variations between MSA and PD in symptoms, disease risk, and disease severity ⎯ all of which will improve upon symptom management and disease treatment.  Emphasizing the accurate and distinctive diagnosis of MSA allows individuals to better manage the severe consequences of this devastating disease.