Seronegative autoimmune autonomic neuropathy: a distinct clinical entity

Elisabeth P. Golden, Meredith A. Bryarly, Steven Vernino

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

28 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose: Autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy (AAG) is associated with ganglionic acetylcholine receptor (gAChR) antibodies. We describe a similar but distinct series of patients with autoimmune autonomic failure lacking this antibody. Methods: Retrospective chart review. Results: Six patients presented with subacute autonomic failure, seronegative for gAChR antibodies. Orthostatic hypotension and gastrointestinal complaints were common. Autonomic testing revealed predominant sympathetic failure and no premature pupillary redilation. All patients had sensory symptoms and/or pain, which was severe in three. Immunotherapy with plasma exchange, intravenous immunoglobulin, and rituximab was ineffective. Three patients responded to intravenous steroids. Conclusion: In these cases of autoimmune autonomic failure, key differences from seropositive AAG emerge. Testing showed prominent sympathetic (rather than cholinergic) failure, specific pupillary findings of AAG were absent, and sensory symptoms were prominent. AAG responds to antibody-targeted immunotherapy, while these patients responded best to steroids. This seronegative autoimmune autonomic neuropathy is a distinct clinical entity requiring a different treatment approach from AAG.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)115-123
Number of pages9
JournalClinical Autonomic Research
Volume28
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 2018

Keywords

  • Autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy
  • Autonomic neuropathy
  • Autonomic testing
  • Immunotherapy
  • Orthostatic hypotension

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
  • Clinical Neurology

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