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Topic: Hypohidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia, Medical, Sweat Glands

In some types of ectodermal dysplasia, the inability to sweat (hypohidrosis or anhidrosis) can lead to serious health risks like overheating. Several investigational and clinical sweat tests may help determine if sweat glands are present and functioning. 

In this article, you will learn about several types of sweat test options in ectodermal dysplasias. In-office methods including the iodine-starch test, confocal microscope imaging, and the sweat imprint test. Each offers visual or measurable evidence of sweat gland activity. 

A boy affected by XLHED has a sweat test performed to see if he has any working sweat glands.
A child affected by XLHED has quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing to see if he has any sweating.

You will also read about more advanced sweat testing options, like thermoregulatory sweat testing and quantitative sudomotor axon reflex testing, which are performed in specialized labs. However, simple sweat chloride tests used for cystic fibrosis are not appropriate. 

Genetic testing remains the most accurate way to diagnose ectodermal dysplasias.

Read the article to find out if the sweat test options for ectodermal dysplasias are right for you.

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