[A comparative analysis of the function of the autonomic nervous system in patients with thyrotoxicosis and autonomic...

Patients with diffuse toxic goiter and those with vegetative dystonia and paroxysmal permanent disorders are shown to have parasympathetic deficiency and moderate sympathetic insufficiency. In toxic goiter patients hyperhydrosis was accompanied by normal conduction along the vegetative perspiration fibers and a significant increase in foot potential amplitude. In patients having vegetative crises there was reduced conduction along the perspiration fibers. Clinical symptoms of enhanced sympathetic activity in both the diseases can be explained by weak parasympathetic influences and hypersensitivity of peripheral tissues to catecholamines. Spilberger test ascertained high reactive and personal anxiety in both groups. By modified MMPI, toxic goiter patients are characterized by hypochondriac, depressive and anxiety trends. Patients with vegetative crises were prone to demonstrative reactions, hypochondria and anxiety.