Neuropathy Autonomic Neuropathy

Question 1

Which gastrointestinal manifestation is most common in diabetic autonomic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Gastroparesis

Answer

Gastroparesis, delayed gastric emptying due to vagal nerve dysfunction, is the most common GI manifestation of diabetic autonomic neuropathy.

Question 2

Orthostatic hypotension in autonomic neuropathy is defined as a systolic blood pressure drop of at least how many mmHg upon standing?

Accepted Answer

20 mmHg

Answer

Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop of ≥20 mmHg systolic or ≥10 mmHg diastolic within 3 minutes of standing.

Question 3

Cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) is associated with which serious cardiac risk?

Accepted Answer

Sudden cardiac death due to arrhythmia

Answer

CAN is associated with a significantly increased risk of sudden cardiac death due to QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmias.

Question 4

Anhidrosis (inability to sweat) from autonomic neuropathy most commonly begins in which body region?

Accepted Answer

Feet and legs (ascending pattern)

Answer

Autonomic neuropathy-related anhidrosis typically begins in the distal lower extremities and ascends, mirroring the length-dependent nerve damage.

Question 5

Which bedside test is used to evaluate cardiovagal autonomic function in cardiac autonomic neuropathy?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate variability with deep breathing (E:I ratio)

Answer

The heart rate response to deep breathing (E:I ratio) is a sensitive, non-invasive test of parasympathetic cardiac function.

Neuropathy Practice Test