Olivopontocerebellar Atrophy (OPCA)

Olivopontocerebellar atrophy (OPCA) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder (a cerebellar-predominant phenotype of multiple system atrophy, MSA-C) characterized by degeneration of the inferior olives, pons, and cerebellum. Clinical: progressive cerebellar ataxia (gait/limb/dysarthria/nystagmus), plus parkinsonism and autonomic failure (orthostatic hypotension/urinary incontinence). Onset in late adulthood. There is no cure; treatment is supportive, with physical/occupational/speech therapy and management of autonomic symptoms.

Common Symptoms

Progressive cerebellar ataxia; dysarthria/nystagmus; parkinsonism; autonomic failure; late-adult onset

Causes and Pathogenesis

Alpha-synuclein glial inclusions cause degeneration of inferior olives, pons, and cerebellum (MSA-C phenotype).

Treatment

Supportive; physical/occupational/speech therapy; manage orthostatic hypotension/urinary symptoms; fall prevention

Preventive Measures

Supportive care; rehab; manage autonomic symptoms.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Neurology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.