Syncope in childhood

Arch Dis Child. 2003 Apr;88(4):350-3. doi: 10.1136/adc.88.4.350.

Abstract

Syncope in childhood is very common. The vast majority of episodes are benign, and are due to neurocardiogenic syncope. Only a minority are due to something potentially more serious or life threatening. The diagnosis and differentiation of benign from more serious causes of syncope is made primarily by the history. Investigations are often unfruitful. The mainstay of management in neurocardiogenic syncope is reassurance. An increase in dietary fluid and salt can be helpful. Drug treatment is reserved for those with more frequent and severe attacks. Cardiac pacemakers should be reserved for those with very severe symptoms who are refractory to drug therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / complications
  • Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / diagnosis
  • Cardiac Pacing, Artificial
  • Child
  • Electrocardiography
  • Electroencephalography
  • Humans
  • Recurrence
  • Syncope / etiology*
  • Syncope / therapy
  • Tilt-Table Test