Dysautonomia: an Explanation for the Medically Unexplained?

OBJECTIVE: To identify dysautonomia as a collection of conditions with variable presentation that may be mistaken for medically unexplained symptoms. METHODS: Case series. RESULTS: Tilt table testing and 24 h electrocardiographic monitoring provided useful diagnostic tools to confirm the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: A greater awareness and recognition of the disorders that result from dysautonomia and recognition of the disability that results from these disorders will improve patients’ quality of life. LEARNING POINTS: Dysautonomia is protean in presentation and clinicians need to have a high degree of suspicion as, if diagnosed, symptomatic improvement is possible leading to improved quality of life. Tilt table testing and 24 h electrocardiographic monitoring are useful diagnostic tools. Greater awareness and recognition of the disorders that result from dysautonomia with appropriate use of these tests by medical professionals is necessary.