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KMID : 0978920120130040158
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Korean Journal of Clinical Geriatrics
2012 Volume.13 No. 4 p.158 ~ p.169
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Clinical Approach to the Patient in Syncope
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Lee Dong-Kuck
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Abstract
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Transient loss of consciousness in the elderly often presents one of the most difficult diagnostic challenges, particularly because of the high incidence of chronic medical conditions and associated medication usage. The major differential diagnoses include neurologic and cardiovascular causes, with seizures and syncope leading the list. Syncope, a transient loss of consciousness and postural tone due to reduced cerebral blood flow, is associated with spontaneous recovery. Syncope may result from cardiac, multiple noncardiac, or undetermined causes. It may occur suddenly, without warning, or may be preceded by symptoms of faintness. The differentiation of syncope from seizure is an important, sometimes difficult, diagnostic problem. Because most spells of episodic loss of consciousness occur outside medical observation, the history is the most critical part of evaluation.
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KEYWORD
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Syncope, Seizure, History
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