Sudomotor Dysfunction.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Autonomic Nervous System Function
• Peripheral Neuropathy

Background:

• Disorders of sudomotor (sweat) function are prevalent and present with varied symptoms.
• Abnormal sweating patterns, such as hyperhidrosis or hypohidrosis, can indicate specific neurological localization and aid in diagnosis.
• Recognizing extensive anhidrosis (lack of sweating) is crucial for identifying heat intolerance and heat stroke risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the diagnostic significance of sudomotor dysfunction in neurology.
• To outline conditions associated with impaired sweating.
• To emphasize the clinical relevance of identifying postganglionic sudomotor deficits.

Main Methods:

• Review of conditions affecting sudomotor function.
• Discussion of diagnostic markers for small fiber neuropathies.
• Description of methods for assessing sudomotor dysfunction: thermoregulatory sweat test, quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test, silicone impressions, and sympathetic skin response.

Main Results:

• Sudomotor dysfunction can manifest as generalized or regional hyperhidrosis or hypohidrosis.
• Conditions like small fiber peripheral neuropathy, myelopathy, and autoimmune disorders can impair sweating.
• Postganglionic sudomotor deficits serve as a key diagnostic marker for small fiber neuropathies.

Conclusions:

• Assessment of sudomotor function is vital for neurological diagnosis and localization.
• Impaired sweating requires careful recognition due to potential risks like heat intolerance and heat stroke.
• Various testing methods are available to evaluate sudomotor dysfunction.