[Sinocarotid hypersensitivity]

Abstract

Hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus corresponds to a ventricular pause equal to or exceeding 3 seconds and/or a blood pressure drop equal to or exceeding 50 mmHg, induced by massage of the carotid sinus (MCS). MCS remains the diagnostic method of these two syndromes: cardio-inhibitor/vasodepressor. It must be performed systematically during the work-up of transient consciousness disorders since it is not unusual that hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus may cause cardiac syncopes. In addition, hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus is often associated with sinus dysfunction and atrioventricular conduction disorders. In the case of hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus with syncope secondary to a pure or dominant cardio-inhibiting response, heart stimulation with a dual-chamber pacemaker is probably the best treatment. In cases of hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus without syncope, therapeutic abstention is commonly accepted.