This article gives a brief overview of the symptoms and management of multiple system atrophy, a degenerative neurological condition causing parkinsonism, ataxia and autonomic dysfunction. It focuses on the role of the nurse in the context of a multidisciplinary team because holistic care is essential to promote patient independence and maintain quality of life. Because the condition is progressively disabling and shortens life, nurses are ideally placed to support patients and their families, both physically and emotionally.