ARMS-MG / METHODS AND EQUIPMENT

How we assess autonomic function

The project combines standardised tests and modern medical equipment to assess the autonomic nervous system from several perspectives.

Cardiovascular function

The Task Force Monitor (CNSystems Medizintechnik, Austria) records cardiovascular responses. Assessment includes the Ewing battery of standardised tests and heart rate variability (HRV) analysis.

Sudomotor function

Q-Sweat (WR Medical Electronics) assesses postganglionic sympathetic cholinergic function. SUDOSCAN measures electrochemical skin conductance associated with sweat gland function.

Pupillomotor function

Pupillometry is an objective, non-invasive method that records pupil size and response to light. It assesses the combined activity of the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems.

Urogenital function

A bladder ultrasound scanner quickly and non-invasively measures post-void residual urine. The measurement supports assessment of autonomic bladder control without catheterisation.

Research equipment

Room with examination bed and equipment for functional autonomic testing — Autonomic testing laboratory · Department of Neurology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb

Q-Sweat device, electrode placement and sweat measurement capsule — Q-Sweat system for sudomotor testing

Example screen showing left and right conductance measurements — Example display of a sudomotor function measurement

The methods and equipment shown form part of the planned research protocol. Individual examinations are performed according to clinical assessment and the approved protocol.