Multiple System Atrophy With Intractable Fever: A Case Report

Abstract

Abstract Background Multiple system atrophy (MSA) is a rare neurodegenerative disease with rapid progression and poor prognosis. It mainly affects the extrapyramidal system, cerebellum and autonomic nervous system as well as the hypothalamus. Case presentation: A 71-year-old woman who had a fever for two months. Although there were evidence of urinary tract infection and pulmonary infection, her temperature did not decrease after treatment. Six years ago, she gradually developed dysuria, unstable walking and bradykinesia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed the atrophy of the brainstem and cerebellum. Hot-cross-bun sign (HCB) in pons indicated that she was diagnosed with possible multiple system atrophy. The involvement of the hypothalamus lead to the disorder of thermoregulation and hormone secretion. Her condition improved after the treatment of bromocriptine. Conclusions Our case adds to the number of cases of multiple system atrophy as a rare symptom of intractable fever. It also provides a new treatment idea for multiple system atrophy.