VAGUS NERVE IN MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY

VAGUS NERVE IN MULTIPLE SYSTEM ATROPHY:

The vagus nerve, which originates from the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus (DMV) in the brainstem, is significantly affected in multiple system atrophy (MSA). The following key points summarize the involvement of the vagus nerve in MSA:

– There is substantial loss of cholinergic neurons in the DMV in MSA patients, contributing to various autonomic dysfunctions.[1][2]

– The neuronal loss in the DMV may contribute to impaired baroreflex-triggered cardioinhibition and respiratory sinus arrhythmia in MSA.[2]

– Gastrointestinal symptoms like delayed gastric emptying are common in MSA, likely due to vagal denervation of the enteric neurons.[1][2]

– Ultrasonographic studies have shown significant atrophy of the vagus nerve in MSA patients compared to controls, which may help differentiate MSA from other parkinsonian disorders.[4][5]

– The involvement of the vagus nerve in MSA is distinct from the involvement of the ventrolateral nucleus ambiguus, which innervates the heart and contributes to cardiovagal failure.[1][3]

In summary, the vagus nerve originating from the DMV is markedly affected in MSA, leading to various autonomic dysfunctions, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms and potential diagnostic utility through vagus nerve ultrasonography.[1][2][4][5]

Sources

[1] Involvement of vagal autonomic nuclei in multiple system atrophy … 

[2] An update on MSA: premotor and non-motor features open a … 

[3] New findings on the neuropathology of multiple system atrophy 

[4] The carotid ultrasonography revealed vagus nerve atrophy of the … 

[5] Vagus Nerve Ultrasonography Helps Distinguish Multiple System …