Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension: pathophysiology, evaluation, and management

J Neurol. 2013 Sep;260(9):2212-9. doi: 10.1007/s00415-012-6736-7. Epub 2012 Nov 20.

Abstract

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension is a distinctive and treatable sign of cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction. It is caused by failure of noradrenergic neurotransmission that is associated with a range of primary or secondary autonomic disorders, including pure autonomic failure, Parkinson's disease with autonomic failure, multiple system atrophy as well as diabetic and nondiabetic autonomic neuropathies. Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension is commonly accompanied by autonomic dysregulation involving other organ systems such as the bowel and the bladder. In the present review, we provide an overview of the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, epidemiology, evaluation and management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension focusing on neurodegenerative disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Hypotension, Orthostatic / etiology
  • Hypotension, Orthostatic / physiopathology*
  • Hypotension, Orthostatic / therapy
  • Nervous System Diseases / complications
  • Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Nervous System Diseases / therapy