Neurocardiogenic syncope: its pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment
Freitas, J.; Puig, J.; Pizarro, M.; Costa, O.; Carvalho, M.; de Freitas, A.F.
Revista Portuguesa de Cardiologia Orgao Oficial da Sociedade Portuguesa de Cardiologia 15(2): 103-109; 99
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0870-2551 PMID: 8645473 Document Number: 462885
Neurocardiogenic syncope seems to be the most common cause of syncope. It is believed to be triggered by paradoxical autonomic reflexes, beginning in the ventricular mechanoreceptors of the heart, modulated by the brain stem and terminating in the autonomic efferent pathways (parasympathetic stimulation with bradycardia or asystole and sympathetic inhibition with severe hypotension). Tilt test has been used recently, as a safety and effective tool to identify subjects prone to syncope. Although the pathophysiology of this syndrome is not completely understood, pharmacological therapeutics seems very effective in resolving symptoms.