Autonomic testing, methods and techniques

The evaluation of autonomic function requires indirect assessment of neurophysiologic function using specialized equipment that is often available only at tertiary care centers, with few specialists available. However, the evaluation of autonomic function is rooted in basic physiology, and the results can be interpreted by careful consideration of the context of the problem. Many automated devices have become widely available to test autonomic function, but they tend to gather inadequate data leading to frequent misdiagnosis and clinical confusion. We review the details necessary for the neurophysiologist to properly perform, and interpret, autonomic function testing.