Evaluating Syncopal Episodes in Elders

Although syncope is encountered often, its work-up remains challenging. In this study, researchers in Connecticut reviewed records for more than 1900 consecutive patients (age, ≥65) who were admitted for syncope. They assessed the frequency and cost of typical diagnostic tests and whether results affected clinical decision making (see Table). The most commonly diagnosed etiologies for syncope were vasovagal (22%), orthostatic hypotension (13%), and arrhythmia (12%); in 47% of cases, no etiology was provided at discharge.