sudorimetria

Sudorimetria is a group of methods for measuring sweat production from the skin, with the aim of assessing sudomotor function and eccrine sweat gland activity. It is used in the evaluation of autonomic disorders, including autonomic neuropathies and dysautonomia, and as a research tool in studies of thermoregulation and skin physiology. In some protocols, sweating is pharmacologically stimulated (for example by pilocarpine iontophoresis) to induce a standardized sweat response before collection.

Measurement techniques include gravimetric methods, where sweat is collected on absorbent material and its mass is measured over a defined period; hygrometric or ventilated-cap capsule methods, which determine sweat rate from changes in humidity or flow within a sealed chamber; and modern sensor-based systems that estimate sweat production by microelectronic sensors placed on the skin. Results are usually expressed as sweat rate per unit area (for example mg/min/cm^2) or as total sweat volume over a specified time. Norms and interpretation depend on the method, body site, and subject characteristics.

Applications and limitations: Sudorimetry complements other autonomic tests and can help identify reduced (hypohidrosis) or excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). It is not, by itself, diagnostic of a specific disease and must be interpreted in the clinical context. External factors such as ambient temperature and humidity, hydration status, skin condition, and recent topical products can influence results. Standardized protocols and normative data exist for many methods, but comparability between devices may be limited.