[Acute panautonomic neuropathy: a report of 4 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To explore the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of acute panautonomic neuropathy (APN).

METHODS

We reviewed the history, clinical findings, electrophysiological characteristics, laboratory features of CSF and treatment of 4 patients with APN.

RESULTS

All these patients showed acute onset with apparent involvement of the autonomic nervous system. The clinical features of autonomic involvement included fixed dilated pupils, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and anhidrosis. Electromyography showed evidence of peripheral neuropathy. Early treatment with corticosteroid and intravenous immunoglobulins resulted in improved prognosis of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

APN is a rare autonomic nervous system disorder, and understanding of the clinical features may help in early diagnosis and treatment of the patients.