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Review
. 2000;27(3):268-72.

Neurally mediated syncope

M Zaqqa  1 , A Massumi
Affiliations
Review

Neurally mediated syncope

M Zaqqa et al. Tex Heart Inst J. 2000.

Abstract

Neurally mediated syncope is a disorder of the autonomic regulation of postural tone, which results in hypotension, bradycardia, and loss of consciousness. A wide variety of stimuli can trigger this reflex, the most common stimulus being orthostatic stress. Typically, a patient with neurally mediated syncope experiences nausea, lightheadedness, a feeling of warmth, and pallor before abruptly losing consciousness. If the cause of syncope is unclear, a stepwise approach is necessary to arrive at the diagnosis. The diagnosis of neurally mediated syncope can be confirmed by a head-up tilt-table test. Treatment options include behavioral modification and several pharmacologic therapies. For severe recurrent syncope unresponsive to conventional treatment, a pacemaker can be implanted.

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Figures

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Fig. 1 Steps involved in the development of syncope related to orthostatic stress.
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