Key result
A large hiatal hernia was identified as the cause of a syncopal episode due to mechanical compression of the left atrium, demonstrating a rare relationship between two common conditions.
Case Report (n=1)
No
This case highlights a rare cause-and-effect relationship where a large hiatal hernia can cause syncope via mechanical compression of the left atrium.
May prompt consideration of rare mechanical causes in refractory syncope; hypothesis-generating and requires validation.
This report presents a case of an 80-year-old Caucasian female with a history of hypertension, deep vein thrombosis (managed with warfarin), and Guillain-Barré syndrome, who experienced a syncopal episode. The diagnostic workup included continuous cardiac monitoring, a transthoracic echocardiogram, and orthostatic vital measurements to identify potential causes of syncope. After ruling out more common etiologies, the syncopal episode was suspected to result from mechanical compression of the left atrium by an untreated hiatal hernia. While surgical correction was considered, the patient declined due to her age and the associated postoperative risks. Consequently, supportive management became the focus of care. This case highlights the importance of comprehensive evaluations for patients with recurrent syncope and the need to provide appropriate lifestyle recommendations when surgical intervention is not pursued.
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Materia et al. (2025) conducted a case report in Syncope and large hiatal hernia (n=1). Large hiatal hernia was evaluated on Etiology of syncope. A large hiatal hernia was identified as the cause of a syncopal episode due to mechanical compression of the left atrium, demonstrating a rare relationship between two common conditions.
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