Syncope in Children: A Review on Etiology, Evaluation and Management Strategies Indicated

Syncope is a common problem presenting in paediatric emergency department. It is a transient loss of consciousness followed by spontaneous complete recovery. It is a frightening scenario which can present at anytime in paediatric emergency. Neurally mediated syncope (NMS) is the commonest cause of syncopal attack in children and adolescents. It is benign. It should be differentiated from Cardiac syncope. Cardiac syncope is serious and need specific management of cardiac problem History taking is crucial for diagnosis. it is very important to identify red flags to differentiate benign neurally mediated syncope from severe cardiac syncope. Objective of this study is to review etiology of syncopal attacks in children, to find out different methods of evaluation and to enlist in short management strategies indicated. Authors have reviewed many recent articles on evaluation and management of paediatric syncope. It was concluded that NMS (neurally mediated syncope) is the commonest and benign cause of syncopal attack in children and adolescence. Reassurance is key to the management Some times if history is suggestive of any psychiatric pathology, early referral of patients to mental health specialist is also indicated Neurally mediated syncope can be managed with life style measures. Encourage proper diet, exercise, drinking plenty of water, adequate salt intake is also recommended.