Autonomic dysfunction in clinical disorders with particular reference to catecholamine release.

The role of autonomic dysfunctions in clinical disorders is discussed. Particular attention is paid to catecholamine release, plasma levels and noradrenaline clearance in various disease states and how they are affected by aging. What can be determined from plasma norepinephrine levels requires caution for reasons given. The topics dealt with most specifically are: (1) clinical dysfunctions with raised plasma catecholamine levels and how pathophysiological states may cause or be affected thereby; (2) the abnormalities produced by reduced sympathetic activity; (3) other neurological disorders affecting autonomic functions; and (4) disorders in which abnormal autonomic system function is in doubt, such as orthostatic hypotension in the elderly.