Syncope Differential Diagnosis and Assessment Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the differential diagnoses, history-taking questions, and physical examination findings for patients presenting with syncope.

CVS Causes of Syncope

Includes Arrhythmia, Aortic stenosis, HOCM, MI, and Prolong QT Syndrome.

CNS Causes of Syncope

Includes TIA/Stroke, Head Injury, and Epilepsy.

Reproductive Female Causes of Syncope

Specific differentials for females of reproductive age including Pregnancy, Ectopic pregnancy, and Menorrhagia.

Other Causes of Syncope

Vasovagal, Postural, Hypoglycemia, Anemia, Medication, Alcohol hangover, Stress/psychogenic, and Infection.

Pre-Syncope

Sensations felt before a fall, such as lightheadedness, dizziness, headache, blurring of vision, or limb weakness.

Syncope Event Features

Characteristics during the loss of consciousness, such as duration, jerking movements, incontinence (wetting self/passing stool), tongue biting, and head injury.

Post-Syncope assessment

Evaluating the state after gaining consciousness, specifically looking for confusion, drowsiness, weakness, or problems with vision or speech.

Postural Hypotension

A condition indicated by feeling dizzy when getting up from bed in the morning.

General Appearance: PICKLED

A component of the general physical examination specifically checking for pallor.

Neck Examination for Syncope

Checking for JVP (Jugular Venous Pressure) and Carotid bruits.

CVS Palpation Findings

Assessments of the apex beat position, palpable thrills, parasternal heaves, or a palpable $P_2$.

CVS Auscultation Findings

Listening for $S_1$, $S_2$, and any added sounds such as murmurs.

Office Tests for Syncope

Immediate diagnostic tests including UDT, BSL, and ECG.

Family History (FHX) Red Flags

Checking for a family history of sudden death or heart disease.