NYMC Faculty Publications
Pediatric Disorders of Orthostatic Intolerance
DOI
10.1542/peds.2017-1673
Journal Title
Pediatrics
First Page
e20171673
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
January 2018
Department
Pediatrics
Abstract
Orthostatic intolerance (OI), having difficulty tolerating an upright posture because of symptoms or signs that abate when returned to supine, is common in pediatrics. For example, approximately 40% of people faint during their lives, half of whom faint during adolescence, and the peak age for first faint is 15 years. Because of this, we describe the most common forms of OI in pediatrics and distinguish between chronic and acute OI. These common forms of OI include initial orthostatic hypotension (which is a frequently seen benign condition in youngsters), true orthostatic hypotension (both neurogenic and nonneurogenic), vasovagal syncope, and postural tachycardia syndrome. We also describe the influences of chronic bed rest and rapid weight loss as aggravating factors and causes of OI. Presenting signs and symptoms are discussed as well as patient evaluation and testing modalities. Putative causes of OI, such as gravitational and exercise deconditioning, immune-mediated disease, mast cell activation, and central hypovolemia, are described as well as frequent comorbidities, such as joint hypermobility, anxiety, and gastrointestinal issues. The medical management of OI is considered, which includes both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches. Finally, we discuss the prognosis and long-term implications of OI and indicate future directions for research and patient management.
Recommended Citation
Stewart, J., Boris, J., Chelimsky, G., Fischer, P., Fortunato, J., Grubb, B., Heyer, G., Jarjour, I., Medow, M., Numan, M., Pianosi, P., Singer, W., Tarbell, S., Chelimsky, T., & Pediatric Writing Group of the American Autonomic Society. (2018). Pediatric Disorders of Orthostatic Intolerance. Pediatrics, 141 (1), e20171673. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2017-1673
