Swallow syncope in association with Schatzki ring and hypertensive esophageal peristalsis: report of three cases and review of the literature

Dysphagia. 2005 Fall;20(4):273-7. doi: 10.1007/s00455-005-0024-y.

Abstract

Syncope caused by swallowing-induced cardiac arrhythmia is an uncommon condition. The recognition of this syndrome is paramount but often difficult. We report three cases of deglutition syncope evaluated at our institution over a three-year period. Two patients had distal esophageal (Schatzki) ring and two had hypertensive peristaltic waves (commonly referred to as "nutcracker esophagus"), neither of which had been described before in association with deglutition syncope. Two patients underwent placement of a demand cardiac pacemaker with subsequent resolution of their syncopal symptoms, while the third patient refused any further intervention. Swallow syncope usually follows a benign course from a cardiac standpoint. Placement of a demand cardiac pacemaker can prevent recurrence of presyncopal and syncopal attacks and their untoward consequences.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / diagnosis*
  • Arrhythmias, Cardiac / therapy*
  • Deglutition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Electrocardiography
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders / diagnosis
  • Esophageal Sphincter, Upper / abnormalities*
  • Esophagoscopy / methods
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Manometry / methods
  • Middle Aged
  • Pacemaker, Artificial
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Syncope / diagnosis*
  • Syndrome
  • Treatment Outcome