++
What diagnostic testing should be considered for common causes of syncope?
When do clinicians need to rule out arrhythmias and how is this done?
What are the diagnostic criteria for neurocardiogenic syncope?
When do patients require hospital admission?
How do elderly patients differ from younger patients?
How should the history and physical examination be utilized to direct further testing or limit further testing in the evaluation of syncope?
What are the indications for advanced noninvasive or invasive tests in the evaluation of syncope?
++
Syncope is defined as a sudden, transient loss of consciousness and postural tone with rapid spontaneous recovery. Syncope results from cerebral hypoperfusion to the reticular activating system in the brain stem. Any condition that does not result from cerebral hypoperfusion should not be classified as syncope.
++++++
++
Syncope has a 3% incidence in the general population and 6% incidence in persons over age 75 years. It is responsible for up to 5% of emergency department (ED) visits and up to 3% of hospital admissions. The median cost of hospitalization of patients with syncope is approximately $8500, and many (up to 50%) may be discharged from the ...