Striatonigral Degeneration
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What is Striatonigral Degeneration?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsWhat is Striatonigral Degeneration?
Striatonigral degeneration is a neurological disorder caused by a disruption in the connection between two areas of the brain-the
striatum and the substantia nigra. These two areas work together to enable balance and movement. Striatonigral degeneration
is a type of multiple system atrophy (MSA). Symptoms of the disorder resemble some of those seen in Parkinson's disease, including
rigidity, instability, impaired speech, and slow movements.
Is there any treatment?
There is no cure for striatonigral degeneration, and treatments for the disorder have variable success. Treatments used for
Parkinson's disease are recommended. However, unlike Parkinson's disease, striatonigral degeneration is not responsive to
levodopa. Dopamine and anticholinergics provide some benefit. Generally, treatment is reevaluated as the disorder progresses.
What is the prognosis?
Striatonigral degeneration progresses slowly. Some patients have normal life expectancy.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports and conducts research on disorders of the brain and nervous system such as striatonigral degeneration.
This research focuses on finding ways to prevent and treat these disorders.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated February 14, 2007
