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.