Síncope
- del Val Martín, D.
- Rodríguez Muñoz, D.
- Segura de la Cal, T.
- Zamorano Gómez, J.L.
ISSN: 0304-5412
Year of publication: 2017
Issue Title: Enfermedades cardiológicas (IV) Arritmias (I)
Series: 12
Issue: 38
Pages: 2275-2281
Type: Article
More publications in: Medicine: Programa de Formación Médica Continuada Acreditado
Abstract
Abstract/Introduction Syncope is typically a picture that is difficult to assess because of the limited ability of the patient and, sometimes, also of his or her companions, to describe the exact circumstances in which it occurred and, through them, important details as to its possible cause. Likewise, the causes vary from some banal ones to others that can be lethal, which makes that its correct approach is key for the prognosis of the patient. Diagnosis The diagnosis should first be directed to elucidate if what the patient has presented is, truly, a syncope and not another type of reduction or loss of level of consciousness. A second essential step is to establish the presence or absence of risk aspects in the context and in the manner in which syncope occurred. Finally, findings derived from physical examination and complementary tests may support specific suspicions and help guide the diagnosis better. Management Based on the diagnosis of suspicion, the presence or absence of risk factors and the findings obtained in the exploration and complementary tests, the need to enter and the indication of complementary tests must be decided. In the case of suspicion of syncope due to arrhythmic causes, it is essential to define the suspected tachyarrhythmias or bradyarrhythmias as the cause of the condition, as this will indicate one or the other definitive treatment.
Funding information
AHA/ACCF Scientific Statement on the evaluation of syncope: from the American Heart Association Councils on Clinical Cardiology, Cardiovascular Nursing, Cardiovascular Disease in the Young, and Stroke, and the Quality of Care and Outcomes Research Interdisciplinary Working Group; and the American College of Cardiology Foundation: in collaboration with the Heart Rhythm Society: endorsed by the American Autonomic SocietyBibliographic References
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