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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
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Quantitative Autonomic Testing
Published on: July 19, 2011
Evaluation of the autonomic nervous system
Safwan S Jaradeh1, Thomas E Prieto
1Department of Neurology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Froedtert West Hospital, 9200 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA. jaradeh@mcw.edu
Summary
This review covers laboratory tests for autonomic disorders, focusing on sudomotor, cardiovagal, and adrenergic functions. Findings help diagnose various autonomic nervous system conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Clinical Physiology
Background:
- Autonomic nervous system disorders affect vital involuntary functions.
- Accurate laboratory evaluation is crucial for diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review laboratory methods for evaluating autonomic disorders.
- To outline key tests for sudomotor, cardiovagal, and adrenergic functions.
Main Methods:
- Assessment of sudomotor function (thermoregulatory sweat test, QSART).
- Evaluation of cardiovagal function (Valsalva ratio, heart rate response to deep breathing/standing).
- Measurement of adrenergic function (blood pressure response to Valsalva maneuver/head-upright tilt).
Main Results:
- Specific tests effectively assess distinct autonomic domains.
- Test findings aid in diagnosing various autonomic nervous system disorders.
- Tables summarize test results for clinical application.
Conclusions:
- Laboratory autonomic testing provides essential diagnostic information.
- Understanding these tests is vital for managing autonomic dysfunction.
- This review offers a framework for clinical autonomic disorder assessment.
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