Evaluation of skin vasomotor reflexes by using laser Doppler velocimetry
Low, P.A.; Neumann, C.; Dyck, P.J.; Fealey, R.D.; Tuck, R.R.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings 58(9): 583-592
1983
ISSN/ISBN: 0025-6196 PMID: 6310277 Document Number: 219181
We used a laser Doppler velocimeter for measurement of skin blood flow in 63 healthy control subjects and in patients with dysautonomias. We measured vasoconstrictor responses to inspiratory gasp, standing, Valsalva maneuver, and cold stimulus. An abnormal profile was defined in terms of the percentage of abnormal test results, the results of individual tests, and the alterations in the shape of the recorded response. These measurements of vasomotor function may permit the diagnosis of focal abnormalities of peripheral nerve sympathetic failure.