Cardiovascular autonomic testing performed with a new integrated instrumental approach is useful in differentiating MSA-P from PD at an early stage.

Objective: To evaluate whether a battery of cardiovascular autonomic tests (Ewing's battery, EB) performed with a new integrated instrumental approach is useful in differentiating multiple system atrophy with predominant parkinsonism (MSA-P) from Parkinson's disease (PD) at an early stage.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed EB tests of all the patients (n = 99) with a parkinsonian syndrome referred to our clinic who performed EB during the first diagnostic workup and were subsequently evaluated at least once a year until a final diagnosis of MSA-P (n = 34) or PD (n = 65). Thirty-eight controls matched for age and sex were included.

Cognitive function in peripheral autonomic disorders.

Objective: aims of the current study were 1) to evaluate global cognitive function in patients with autonomic failure (AF) of peripheral origin and 2) to investigate the effect of a documented fall in blood pressure (BP) fulfilling the criteria for orthostatic hypotension (OH) on cognitive performances.

Methods: we assessed 12 consecutive patients (10 males, 68±7 years old) with pure AF (PAF) or autoimmune autonomic neuropathy (AAN) and 12 age- and gender-matched controls. All patients had no clinical signs of central nervous system involvement and normal brain CT/MRI scan.

Tilt-induced cardioinhibitory syncope: a follow-up study in 16 patients.

Introduction: The exact clinical and prognostic significance and the therapeutic implications of asystole induced by head-up tilt test are still a matter of debate.

Methods: We assessed, by means of a semi-structured interview, the long-term outcome of cardioinhibitory syncope in all the patients who presented a tilt-induced sinus arrest of more than 3 s in our Autonomic Unit between 1996 and 2010.

Conclusions: Although syncopal recurrences were common, tilt-induced asystole did not imply a poor prognosis in terms of death or major therapeutic procedures.

Reversible postural tachycardia syndrome due to inadvertent overuse of Red Bull.

Postural tachycardia syndrome associated with a vasovagal reaction was recorded in a young volleyball player after an excess intake of Red Bull as a refreshing energy drink. Considering the widespread use of Red Bull among young people who are often unaware of the drink's drug content, this case report suggest Red Bull be considered a possible cause of orthostatic intolerance.