Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026

A Quick Phenotypic Neurological Scoring System for Evaluating Disease Progression in the SOD1-G93A Mouse Model of ALS
Published on: October 6, 2015
Young-onset multiple system atrophy
Han-Joon Kim1, Beom S Jeon, Jee-Young Lee
1Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
Background:
Multiple system atrophy (MSA) rarely begins before the age of 40 and detailed descriptions of young-onset MSA are lacking.
Methods:
Among 455 patients included in our MSA cohort, four developed disease before the age of 40. We reviewed the medical records of these patients.
Results:
Case 1 and 2 presented with cerebellar symptoms. Case 1 had clinical features and a course typical of MSA. Case 2 had a rapid course and died 3 years after onset. Case 3 and Case 4 presented with levodopa-responsive parkinsonism. Both developed motor fluctuations and peak-dose limb dyskinesias. Subthalamic deep brain stimulation (DBS) resulted in some improvements in motor symptoms, but they became totally dependent within a few years.
Discussion:
Young-onset MSA is rare but does exist. Young-onset MSA with predominant parkinsonism may closely resemble Parkinson disease at onset and is likely to develop motor complications. Attention should be given to the possibility of young-onset MSA in selecting DBS candidates.
Related Concept Videos
Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction
Alzheimer Disease ll: Pathophysiology
Myasthenia Gravis ll: Pathophysiology
Parkinson Disease ll: Pathophysiology
Alzheimer's Disease: Overview
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ and tau...
Alzheimer Disease l: Introduction

