Hypohidrosis is a term for not enough sweating required to maintain normal core body temperature. Anhidrosis implies total lack of sweating.

What is the cause of hypo- or anhidrosis?

Usual cause is autonomic nervous system dysfunction, which can be central or peripheral. Following are some disorders associated with it:

Central autonomic dysfunction

• Multiple system atrophy
• Dementia with Lewy bodies
• Parkinson disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Stroke
• Spinal cord disease

Peripheral autonomic dysfunction

Pure autonomic failure

Autoimmune ganglionopathy

Autonomic neuropathy

               -Diabetic

               -Paraneoplastic

               -Amyloid

               -Inherited

Autoimmune conditions like Sjogren syndrome

Fabry disease

Harlequin syndrome

Systemic sclerosis

Ross syndrome

Congenital sweat gland absence

Iatrogenic (caused by medicines)

Anticholinergics such as doxepin, atropine, glycopyrrolate, cyproheptadine, hyoscyamine, amitriptyline, oxybutynin, clozapine, quetiapine, chlorpromazine, tolterodine

Carbonic anhydrase inhibitors such as topiramate, zonisamide

Central adrenergic like clonidine

Opioids like Fentanyl, morphine, hydrocodone, oxycodone

Neuromuscular blockers like botox

 

What is the treatment for hypohidrosis or anhidrosis?

There is no specific treatment other than removing any medicine that may be causing it, and treating any underlying treatable condition.

 

Who should I see if I have hypohidrosis or anhidrosis?

Start with PCP to rule out common underlying reasons. Some patients may have to see a specialist like a neurologist, rheumatologist, endocrinologist, or a dermatologist.

 

Where can I get more information about hypohidrosis or anhidrosis?

American Academy of Neurology