Child with Syncope

Syncope is defined as the abrupt loss of consciousness followed by spontaneous and complete recovery. It is a common pediatric problem that mostly affects adolescent girls. This chapter will review the mechanism, most common etiologies of pediatric syncope and provide tools on how to differentiate benign causes from life-threatening cardiac causes of syncope. A detailed history and physical examination is the cornerstone for the evaluation of syncope. Clinical evaluation along with an electrocardiogram will enable a practitioner exclude majority of the cardiac causes of syncope in children. Although the management of syncope is directed toward the etiology, most causes of pediatric syncope are benign and treatment should focus on reassurance and counseling. Lastly, we aim to provide a list of red flags that should trigger a prompt referral to a pediatric cardiologist or neurologist.