Syncope

Syncope is a sudden and brief loss of consciousness associated with a loss of postural tone, from which recovery is spontaneous. The pathophysiology of all forms of syncope consists of a sudden decrease in or brief cessation of cerebral blood flow. Syncope is common, disabling, and possibly associated with a risk of sudden death, but its causes are difficult to diagnose.13 Consequently, syncope often leads to hospital admission, multiple consultations, and the performance of many diagnostic tests.4 This article provides an approach to the evaluation of syncope.Is It Syncope?The first important issue is distinguishing syncope from several . . .