Abstract Syncope is a common symptom due to various causes, ranging from benign to lifethreatening conditions. According to the evaluation and management of patients with syncope, they can be classified as being at short or longterm risk. Risk stratification during initial evaluation is important for guiding the treatment, and reducing longterm morbidity and mortality. This paper introduces the new progress in the etiology, risk stratification, diagnostic methods and treatment strategies of syncope, and elaborates on the selection of initial assessment tools for syncope patients. In order to elevate the diagnostic accuracy rate of syncope, a systematic and holistic analysis of syncope patients was proposed, including the initial assessment of outpatients and emergency services as well as the observation and treatment during subsequent hospitalization. This paper suggests the management of syncope be considered as a focus, such as establishing syncope management units, taking structured care pathways,etc. Finally, it is suggested to make more efforts in aspects of randomized controlled trials, treatment and collaborative research in the future.
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About author:: David G. Benditt, MD, professor of Medicine; research interests: diagnosis and treatment of syncope and cardiac arrhythmias, E-mail: bendit001@umn.edu |
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