Sunday 17 October 2010

MRCP revision battle 32.7: Autonomic neuropathy

Autonomic neuropathy is characterised by:
  • postural hypotension
  • erectile dysfunction
  • constipation or diarrhoea
  • urinary retention
  • inability to sweat
  • loss of decreased heart rate on deep breathing
  • Horners
  • Holmes-Adie pupil


Causes:
  • endocrine
    • diabetes
  • infective
    • HIV
    • syphilis
    • leprosy
  • autoimmune
    • SLE
  • other
    • GBS
    • MSA
    • parkinson's disease
    • liver/renal failure.


Treatment is symptomatic; remember fludrocortisone as an option for severe postural hypotension.


On that list-intensive battle lets retire for the day.