[Comparison of quality of life in multiple system atrophy and Parkinson's disease]

Quality of life (QoL) in multiple system atrophy (MSA) is thought to be poorer than in Parkinson's disease (PD), primarily because of motor impairment, autonomic dysfunction and depression. The aim of the study was to investigate QoL in 10 patients with probable MSA (parkinsonian subtype) compared with 10 PD patients matched for motor disability on UPDRS III motor score.

All patients were ambulatory and non-demented. Mean durations of disease in MSA and PD patients were respectively 3.6 and 9.0 years. QoL was assessed using the SF-36 health-related questionnaire and a life satisfaction visual analogue scale. Patients were also evaluated for cognitive function (Mattis Dementia Rating Scale [Mattis DRS], Wisconsin Card Sorting Test [WCST], Stroop, Fluencies), depression (Beck Depression Inventory-II [BDI-II]), apathy (Modified Apathy Evaluation Scale) and were screened for non-motor symptoms (NMS Quest).

The only difference in QoL between MSA and PD patients matched for motor disability was that the SF-36 vitality subscore was more impaired in MSA and negatively correlated with interference index on Stroop word colour testing. Depression and non-motor symptoms were associated with poorer QoL in both groups. Among MSA patients, cognitive impairment (Stroop interference index) and apathy also had a negative impact.

There was no major difference in QoL between MSA and PD patients matched for motor disability with a disease duration about 5 years longer. The SF-36 vitality subscore was more impaired in MSA and associated with interference sensitivity.