Syncope: Case Studies

Inna Kleyman; Louis H Weimer

doi:10.1016/j.ncl.2016.04.002

Syncope: Case Studies

Neurol Clin. 2016 Aug;34(3):525-45. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2016.04.002.

Authors

Inna Kleyman¹, Louis H Weimer²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Neurological Institute of New York, 710 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
² Department of Neurology, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Neurological Institute of New York, 710 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA. Electronic address: [email protected].

PMID: 27445240
DOI: 10.1016/j.ncl.2016.04.002

Abstract

Syncope, or the sudden loss of consciousness, is a common presenting symptom for evaluation by neurologists. It is not a unique diagnosis but rather a common manifestation of disorders with diverse mechanisms. Loss of consciousness is typically preceded by a prodrome of symptoms and sometimes there is a clear trigger. This article discusses several cases that illustrate the various causes of syncope. Reflex syncope is the most common type and includes neurally mediated, vasovagal, situational, carotid sinus hypersensitivity, and atypical forms. Acute and chronic autonomic neuropathies and neurodegenerative disorders can also present with syncope.

Keywords: Autonomic dysfunction; Cardiogenic syncope; Dysautonomia; Orthostatic hypotension; Syncope; Vasovagal.

Publication types

Case Reports
Review

MeSH terms

Adult
Aged
Female
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Syncope / etiology*
Young Adult