Clinical assessment of sympathetic function in man.

Investigations are reviewed which are suitable for use in clinical situations in which lesions of the sympathetic nervous system are suspected. Particular attention is given to the problems of cardiovascular regulation as orthostatic hypotension is one of the commoner manifestations of sympathetic failure. Tests of the autonomic innervation of the eyes are also discussed. Tests of parasympathetic function are briefly described, as both parts of the autonomic nervous system may be affected by the same disease process.