Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 1, 2026

Quantitative Autonomic Testing
Published on: July 19, 2011
Identification of subgroups of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis
Yin-Chun Chen1, Chieh-Shan Wu, Gwo-Shing Chen
1Department of Dermatology, Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
Background:
Acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis (AIGA) is a rarely encountered clinical syndrome. Sixty-five cases have been reported and 62 of them are Japanese. AIGA was further classified into 3 subgroups with idiopathic pure sudomotor failure being the most common. However, it is burdensome to diagnose AIGA and identify its subgroups. Some of the tools used to diagnose AIGA such as the quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test and microneurography are not generally available.
Case Summary:
We report the first Chinese patient with AIGA and review the literature to develop a flowchart for the diagnosis and identification of subgroups of AIGA.
Conclusion:
We conclude that skin biopsy is crucial for the identification of subgroups of AIGA.
Related Concept Videos
Accessory Structures of the Skin: Sweat Glands
Sweat glands are classified as merocrine glands; that is, the secretions are excreted by exocytosis through a duct without affecting the cells of the gland. There...
Adrenergic Receptors: ɑ Subtype
Adrenaline ≥ Noradrenaline >> Isoprenaline
α-adrenoceptors are further divided into α1 and α2-adrenoceptors.
α1-Adrenoceptors: These receptors are located postsynaptically on the effector organs and cause constriction of smooth muscle mediated by activation of phospholipase C—inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate...
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
