Syncope: Definition, Epidemiology, and Classification

Abstract

Major progress has been made during the last 2 decades on the different aspects of syncope. Most of the progress is the consequence of the acceptance of a clear definition of what is and what is not syncope. However, although this definition is widely accepted by physicians who are "specialists" in syncope, it still remains unknown or challenged by many other physicians. This lack of awareness leads to multiple useless, costly, and painful examinations. The next step is therefore to disseminate the knowledge of this definition and the strategy for diagnosis of syncope.

Keywords: Cerebral hypoperfusion; Epidemiology; Syncope; Transient loss of consciousness.