[Transient loss of consciousness : Algorithm for the (differential) diagnosis of syncope at emergency department]

Abstract

Transient loss of consciousness (TLoC) is a common complaint leading to presentation at the emergency department. This comprises a heterogeneous group of disorders including cerebral events, metabolic disturbances, intoxication, psychogenic patterns or any form of syncope. While many causes are benign and self-limited not requiring extensive in-hospital evaluation, others are potentially severe. The optimal evaluation of patients with TLoC/syncope follows a risk-adapted diagnostic algorithm in order to exclude life-threatening conditions and to identify those with high risk for further deterioration like structural heart diseases requiring further diagnostic evaluation. Low-risk patients can be discharged without further extensive diagnostic work up. This article presents an algorithm for structured, evidence-based care of the syncope patient in accordance with the recently launched "2018 ESC guidelines for the diagnosis and management of syncope" in order to ensure that patients requiring hospitalization are managed appropriately and those with benign causes are discharged safely. The English version of this algorithm is available at the end of the article under "Supplementary Material".

Keywords: Drop attacks; Epileptic seizures; Fainting; Risk adjusted management; Standard operating procedure.