Key result
Postural blood pressure recording had the highest diagnostic yield (18%-26%) and lowest cost ($17-$20) for evaluating syncope in older adults, whereas CT scans and cardiac enzymes had yields <5%.
Why the study?
What is the diagnostic yield and cost-effectiveness of various tests used to evaluate older patients admitted for syncope?
Observational (n=2,106)
What is the diagnostic yield and cost-effectiveness of various tests used to evaluate older patients admitted for syncope?
Routine expensive testing for syncope in older adults has low diagnostic yield, whereas simple postural blood pressure recording is underutilized despite having the highest yield and lowest cost.
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May reduce unnecessary testing in older syncope patients; leaves open effects on outcomes in prospective studies.
Mendu et al. (2009) conducted an observational in Syncope (n=2,106). Diagnostic tests was evaluated on Frequency, yield, and costs of diagnostic tests. Postural blood pressure recording had the highest diagnostic yield (18%-26%) and lowest cost ($17-$20) for evaluating syncope in older adults, whereas CT scans and cardiac enzymes had yields <5%.
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