Clinical Analysis and Management of Acquired Idiopathic Generalized Anhidrosis

Curr Probl Dermatol. 2016:51:75-9. doi: 10.1159/000446781. Epub 2016 Aug 30.

Abstract

Acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis (AIGA) is a sweating disorder characterized by inadequate sweating in response to heat stimuli such as high temperature, humidity, and physical exercise. Patients exhibit widespread nonsegmental hypohidrosis/anhidrosis without any apparent cause, but the palms, soles, and axillae are rarely affected. Heat stroke readily develops due to increased body temperature. AIGA commonly affects young males. Approximately 30-60% of patients show complications of cholinergic urticaria, also known as idiopathic pure sudomotor failure or hypohidrotic cholinergic urticaria. Systemic corticosteroids are the most effective therapy, although recurrence is not uncommon.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / therapeutic use
  • Heat Stroke / etiology
  • Humans
  • Hypohidrosis / complications
  • Hypohidrosis / diagnosis*
  • Hypohidrosis / drug therapy
  • Hypohidrosis / pathology
  • Sweat Glands / pathology
  • Urticaria / etiology

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones