SEGMENTAL HYPERHIDROSIS AS A MANIFESTATION OF SPINAL AND PARASPINAL DISEASE

Background: Segmental hyperhidrosis is an uncommon finding which is us ually associated with irritation or infiltration of pre-ganglionic sym pathetic fibres or the sympathetic chain. Methods: We report two cases of segmental hyperhidrosis with striking clinical features. Results: In one case, a mesothelioma produced ipsilateral simultaneous underact ivity and overactivity of sympathetic outflow and in the other case a thoracic central disc herniation was probably responsible for a band o f sweating which clearly extended beyond the segmental level of injury . Conclusion: Segmental hyperhidrosis should trigger a search for stru ctural disease in the spinal and paraspinal region.