Purpose of review: This article provides a summary of the autonomic neuropathies, including neuropathies associated with diabetes mellitus, neuropathies due to amyloid deposition, immune-mediated autonomic neuropathies (including those associated with a paraneoplastic syndrome), inherited autonomic neuropathies, and toxic autonomic neuropathies. The presenting features, diagnostic investigations, and natural history of these neuropathies are discussed.
Recent findings: Recent findings in autonomic peripheral neuropathy include data on the epidemiology and atypical presentations of diabetic autonomic neuropathy, treatment-induced neuropathy of diabetes mellitus, the presentation of immune-mediated neuropathies, and advances in hereditary neuropathy associated with amyloidosis and other hereditary neuropathies.
Summary: Knowledge and recognition of the clinical features of the autonomic neuropathies, combined with appropriate laboratory and electrophysiologic testing, will facilitate accurate diagnosis and management.