Autoimmunity-associated autonomic failure with sympathetic denervation

Clin Auton Res. 2017 Feb;27(1):57-62. doi: 10.1007/s10286-016-0388-0. Epub 2016 Nov 12.

Abstract

We report a case of autoimmunity-associated autonomic failure in a young adult woman who developed arthritis followed 3 years later by pandysautonomia. There was early recovery of parasympathetic functions but persistent neurogenic orthostatic hypotension from post-ganglionic sympathetic denervation. Clinical laboratory testing indicated variable amounts of sympathetic neuronal re-sprouting in the heart, kidneys, eyes, and body as a whole upon follow-up evaluation after 1.5 years.

Keywords: Autoimmunity; Autonomic failure; Catecholamine; Norepinephrine; Sympathetic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Autoimmunity / physiology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Pure Autonomic Failure / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pure Autonomic Failure / immunology*
  • Sympathectomy*
  • Valsalva Maneuver / physiology