CSF biomarker profiles do not differentiate between the cerebellar and parkinsonian phenotypes of multiple system atrophy

Parkinsonism Relat Disord. 2007 Dec;13(8):480-2. doi: 10.1016/j.parkreldis.2007.02.002. Epub 2007 Apr 19.

Abstract

Background: Multiple system atrophy (MSA) can clinically be divided into the cerebellar (MSA-C) and the parkinsonian (MSA-P) variants. It is unknown whether the variation in clinical expression is also reflected by a different underlying neurochemical profile.

Methods: We analyzed brain specific proteins and neurotransmitter metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of 26 patients with MSA-C and 19 with MSA-P.

Results: No differences were found between MSA-C and MSA-P.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that the clinical and in part pathological distinction between the two clinical MSA phenotypes is not reflected by the neurochemical composition of CSF.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Biomarkers / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Cerebellum / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple System Atrophy* / cerebrospinal fluid
  • Multiple System Atrophy* / complications
  • Multiple System Atrophy* / pathology
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / cerebrospinal fluid*
  • Parkinsonian Disorders / etiology*
  • Phenotype
  • Retrospective Studies

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Neurotransmitter Agents