Movement Disorder Specialist ?

[Guest guest]

Several emails have suggested seeking MDS for MSA management. In our

experience at UVa, the first neurologist was an MDS. He eventually had to

refer us to a UVa Clinic that deals with broader problems including

behavioral symptoms as well. These folks were able to make the Dx for

Terry. They have proven to be much more aware of MSA and its atypical

characteristics than this original MDS.

Questions: Is it wise to seek only MDSs?

I like the idea of interviewing and establishing credential for MSA ahead

of time. As we are all learning, symptom management is key.

I am reminded of an old adage: The mark of an intelligent person is what

he/she does when they don't know what to do.

Sennewald Charlottesville, Virginia

[Guest guest]

:

I think people suggest a Movement Disorder Specialist instead of a

general Neurologist because there is a greater likelihood that a Movement

Disorder Specialist will have seen another patient with the disease. In Ken's

case, it was a Cardiologist who suggested he had Shy-Drager Syndrome, and a

Parkinson'd Disease Neurologist who oversaw his treatment and a Pathologist

who diagnosed him with DLBD on autopsy. What you need is a doctor who knows

something about MSA and who is willing to learn along with you. A GP can do

it if he or she is willing to research and learn along the way. It is just

easier if the doctor starts out knowing something about the illness.

Barbara