Why the study?
How should children with syncope be evaluated to determine the etiology?
How should children with syncope be evaluated to determine the etiology?
A detailed history and physical examination are usually sufficient to diagnose the etiology of pediatric syncope, which is most commonly vasodepressor syndrome.
May reduce unnecessary testing in pediatric syncope; leaves open prospective validation of diagnostic algorithms.
Syncope is a multifactorial disorder; however, most pediatric syncopal episodes result from vasodepressor syndrome or the simple faint. A very detailed history and physical examination should indicate the etiology in the majority of cases. Extensive diagnostic studies are rarely necessary. Tilt table testing is a reliable way of identifying individuals predisposed to vasodepressor syncope, and may provide a means of assessing the efficacy of therapeutic interventions in those who require treatment. Treatment for syncope from etiologies other than vasodepressor syndrome is directed at the underlying cause.
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William Scott (1991) studied this question.
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