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Updated: Mar 16, 2026
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Assessing Cerebral Autoregulation via Oscillatory Lower Body Negative Pressure and Projection Pursuit Regression
Published on: December 10, 2014
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Blood pressure oscillations in baroreflex failure
Ahmad Rida Abuzinadah1,2, Dong In Sinn1, Roy Freeman1
1Neurology department, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 185 Pilgrim Road, Palmer 111, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
Summary
This study details a patient experiencing blood pressure instability and fainting upon standing after cancer treatment. Autonomic nervous system testing confirmed baroreflex failure as the cause.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Oncology
- Neurology
Background:
- Radical neck dissection and radiotherapy are common treatments for squamous cell carcinoma.
- Autonomic dysfunction can be a complication of head and neck cancer treatments.
Observation:
- A 67-year-old male patient developed labile hypertension and orthostatic hypotension post-treatment.
- Symptoms included significant blood pressure fluctuations and fainting upon assuming an upright posture.
Findings:
- Autonomic function testing revealed clear evidence of baroreflex failure.
- This indicates a disruption in the body's ability to regulate blood pressure through reflex mechanisms.
Implications:
- Baroreflex failure can significantly impact patient quality of life after cancer therapy.
- Further research is needed to understand and manage this complication.
- Early identification and intervention strategies for autonomic dysfunction post-cancer treatment are crucial.
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