Related Experiment Videos
Autonomic dysfunction in patients with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction
M Camilleri1, R K Balm, P A Low
1Gastroenterology Research Unit, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Summary
Autonomic and vagal dysfunction are common in chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP), especially with diabetes or neurologic disorders. A previously unrecognized vagal neuropathy was found in some idiopathic CIP patients.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Neurology
- Autonomic Neuroscience
Background:
- Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP) can have neuropathic causes.
- Autonomic nervous system dysfunction may contribute to CIP pathogenesis.
- Understanding autonomic involvement is crucial for managing CIP.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate autonomic function in patients with neuropathic chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIP).
- To characterize vagal and sympathetic nervous system function in CIP patients.
- To identify potential underlying causes of autonomic dysfunction in CIP.
Main Methods:
- Prospective evaluation of 50 CIP patients.
- Standardized autonomic function tests assessing vagal and sympathetic function.
- Measurement of postprandial antral pressure, pancreatic polypeptide, and neurotensin levels.
Main Results:
- Autonomic dysfunction, particularly vagal, was confirmed in most CIP patients with diabetes or neurologic disorders.
- Five of 24 idiopathic CIP patients showed previously unrecognized autonomic (chiefly vagal) neuropathy.
- Specific findings included sympathetic neuropathy and abdominal vagal dysfunction in various patient subgroups.
Conclusions:
- Autonomic dysfunction is a significant feature of neuropathic CIP.
- A previously unrecognized vagal neuropathy contributes to idiopathic CIP.
- Targeting autonomic dysfunction may offer new therapeutic strategies for CIP.