Cardioneuroablación como tratamiento del síncope reflejo: reporte de un caso

Resumen: El síncope mediado neuralmente es un trastorno causado por un reflejo autónomo anormalmente amplificado que involucra componentes tanto simpáticos como parasimpáticos. Es la causa más frecuente de síncope en personas jóvenes y su tratamiento sigue siendo un desafío, ya que no se ha demostrado que alguna terapia farmacológica prevenga por completo su recurrencia. En los últimos años ha surgido una técnica denominada cardioneuroablación, que consiste en la ablación por radiofrecuencia de los plexos ganglionares (PG) parasimpáticos, con buenos resultados a corto y largo plazo en la prevención de síncope recurrente, según los diferentes grupos de investigación. Presentamos el primer caso en Chile de un hombre joven con síncopes mediados neuralmente recurrentes que fue tratado con esta técnica en el Hospital Regional de Concepción.

Abstract: Cardioneuroablation is a novel method that can be used to treat reflex syncope. Although the experience with this technique is relatively limited it provides a more physiological way to treat this condition. The first case in Chile is herein reported along with a discussion of the subject.

Coefficient of variation of heart rate and blood pressure in rapid identification of children with suspected orthostatic intolerance / 中华儿科杂志

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of coefficient of variation of heart rate and blood pressure in rapid identification of children with suspected orthostatic intolerance(OI). Methods: This was a retrospective study. The medical records of 379 children with OI were collected, who were admitted to the Department of Pediatrics of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University from January 2015 to January 2020. Another 20 out-patient children without syncope or syncope aura were selected as control. According to the results of standing test and head-up tilt test (HUTT), all the patients with OI were divided into the following 4 groups: vasovagal syncope (VVS) group, postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) group, POTS combined with VVS (POTS+VVS) group and HUTT negative group. Then, coefficient of variation of systolic pressure (SBPCV), coefficient of variation of diastolic pressure (DBPCV) and coefficient of variation of heart rate (HRCV) in standing test and HUTT were calculated. Kruskal-Wallis test was used for comparison among the five groups, and Dunnett's T3 method for comparison between two groups. Paired t test was used to compare the coefficient of variation between supine and erect position and tilt position in each group. The predictive values of HRCV,SBPCV and DBPCV for negative HUTT were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Results: Among the 379 children, there were 79 in HUTT negative group, 208 in VVS group, 52 in POTS group, and 40 in POTS+VVS group. The SBPCV of supine-erect position of the control group, HUTT negative group, VVS group, POTS group, POTS+VVS group were (3.8±1.0)%, (5.3±2.2)%, (6.6±3.4)%, (5.9±3.6)%, (6.9±2.8)%, respectively. Similarly, the SBPCV of supine, erect and head-up tilt position were (4.5±0.8)%, (6.0±1.9)%, (7.1±2.6)%, (6.0±2.1)%, (7.3±2.5)%; the DBPCV of supine-erect position were (7.3±1.2)%, (9.1±3.7)%, (9.1±4.9)%, (9.1±4.8)%, (11.6±4.6)%; the DBPCV of supine, erect and tilt position were (7.4±1.1)%, (9.4±2.9)%, (10.1±3.8)%, (9.2±3.3)%, (11.0±4.7)%; the HRCV of supine-erect position were (7.6±2.6)%, (12.9±3.7)%, (16.2±4.3)%, (21.2±5.9)%, (24.9±5.3)%; and the HRCV of supine, erect and tilt position were (8.1±1.6)%, (10.1±2.7)%, (14.1±4.3)%, (15.6±3.7)%, (18.9±4.0)%, respectively. All the indexes showed significant differences among the five groups (χ2=21.91, 25.47, 19.82, 14.65, 104.52, 92.51, all P<0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that when the SBPCV and HRCV of supine-erect position reached 4.4% and 10.5%, the area under the curve of ROC were 0.713 and 0.877, the sensitivity of predicting negative HUTT were 58.2% and 78.5%, and the specificity were 80.0% and 95.0%, respectively. Conclusions: Coefficient of variation of heart rate and blood pressure may serve as potential diagnostic indexes in evaluating autonomic function of OI patients. SBPCV ≥ 4.4% or HRCV ≥ 10.5% of supine-erect position could be an indication of HUTT.

Syncope in patients with cardiac pacemakers

Abstract Introduction: It is challenging to diagnose syncope in patients with pacemakers. Because these patients have increased morbidity and mortality risks, they require immediate attention to determine the causes in order to provide appropriate treatment. This study aimed to investigate the causes and predictive factors of syncope as well as the methods used to diagnose syncope in cardiac pacemaker patients. Methods: Patients with pacemakers implanted owing to sinus node disease or atrioventricular block were evaluated with standardized questionnaires, endocavitary electrograms, and other tests based on the suspected causes of syncope. Mann-Whitney U tests were used to analyze continuous variables and Chi-squared or Fisher's exact tests were used for categorical variables. Logistic regression was used for multivariate analyses. Statistical significance was P<0.05. Results: The study included 95 patients with pacemakers: 47 experienced syncope in the last 12 months and 48 did not. Of the 100 documented episodes of syncope, 48.9% were vasovagal syncopes, 17% had cardiac-related causes, 10.6% had unknown causes, and 8.5% had pacemaker failure. The multivariate analysis showed that a New York Heart Association (NYHA) Functional Class II was a significant factor for developing syncope (P<0.01). Conclusion: While the most common type of syncope in pacemaker patients was neurally mediated, it is important to perform detailed evaluations in this population as the causes of syncope can be life-threatening. The best diagnostic methods were stored electrogram analysis and the tilt table test. NYHA Functional Class II patients were found to have a higher risk for syncope.

Pediatric patients head-up-tilt-test with pharmacological challenge, it is safe? / Mesa inclinada en pacientes pediátricos con reto farmacológico, ¿es seguro?

Abstract Syncope in pediatrics represents an important cause of visits to the emergency units. For this reason, excluding a cardiac or malignant origin is essential at the time of the initial approach to determine what is the next step in management, or if they need to be referred to a pediatric cardiologist and/or electrophysiologist. Vasovagal syncope is the most frequent cause of syncope in pediatrics, in which a detailed clinical history is enough to make the diagnosis. If no diagnosis is concluded by the history, or if it is necessary to define the hemodynamic response of the patients, the head-up-tilt-test is indicated; this will trigger syncope due to an orthostatic stress caused by the angulated table (passive phase). If a negative response remains, it can be followed by a pharmacologic challenge to trigger the hemodynamic response, which is still controversial in pediatrics. The pharmacologic challenge increases the sensitivity with a slight reduction in test specificity. Although there is not a specific drug for the challenge in pediatric patients yet, the most commonly drugs used are nitrates and isoproterenol, the latter related to a great number of adverse effects. Sublingual administration of nitrates in the challenge has been proven to be ideal, effective, and safe in this specific age group. The aim of this article is to make a literature search to demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of the pharmacologic challenge during the head-up-tilt-test in pediatrics, emphasizing a study conducted at the National Institute of Cardiology with isosorbide dinitrate.

Resumen El síncope en edades pediátricas representa una causa importante en las visitas a unidades de urgencias, por lo que excluir un origen cardíaco o maligno es fundamental al momento del abordaje inicial para determinar la conducta a seguir o la necesidad de derivar al cardiólogo pediatra o electrofisiólogo. El síncope vasovagal (SVV) es la causa más frecuente de síncope en pediatría, para cuyo diagnóstico basta una historia clínica detallada. Cuando ésta no es suficiente para determinar el diagnóstico de síncope reflejo o es necesario definir el tipo de respuesta que lo origina, está indicada una prueba de mesa inclinada que produce un estrés ortostático por la angulación y ello desencadena un síncope (fase pasiva). En pruebas no concluyentes está indicado un reto farmacológico para precipitar la respuesta hemodinámica, pero aún es un tema de controversia en edades pediátricas. El reto farmacológico incrementa la sensibilidad de la prueba, con una ligera reducción de la especificidad. Si bien no existe todavía un medicamento específico para la población pediátrica, los más empleados son los nitratos y el isoproterenol, este último relacionado con un mayor número de efectos adversos. La administración sublingual de los nitratos utilizados ha demostrado ser ideal, efectiva y segura en los pacientes pediátricos. El objetivo del artículo es realizar una revisión de las publicaciones médicas que demuestran la efectividad y seguridad del reto farmacológico durante la prueba de mesa inclinada en pacientes pediátricos, con énfasis en un estudio conducido en el Instituto Nacional de Cardiología con dinitrato de isosorbida (DNIS).

Síncope / Syncope

El síncope es una pérdida transitoria de conciencia y tono postural debido a hipoflujo sanguíneo cerebral que se recupera espontáneamente sin maniobras de RCP. En esta actualización se plantea el síncope vasovagal con sus diagnósticos diferenciales y posibles etiologías, fisiopatología y métodos de estudios. También se presenta la experiencia sobre este tema en nuestro hospital su estudio, tratamiento y diagnostico (tilt test) (AU)

Syncope is a transient loss of consciousness and postural tone due to cerebral blood hypoflow that recovers spontaneously without CPR maneuvers. This update discusses vasovagal syncope with its differential diagnoses and possible etiologies, pathophysiology, and diagnostic methods. Additionally, the experience on this topic of our hospital regarding investigations, treatment, and diagnosis is presented. (AU)

Polymorphisms in ß-adrenergic receptors are associated with increased risk to have a positive head-up tilt table test in patients with vasovagal syncope

Abstract Background Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a frequent clinical condition in which a genetic background seems to be implicated. Considering that the adrenergic receptors (ARs) may play a role in VVS, the present study has as principal aim to determine if the α- and β-AR (ADRA and ADRB) gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk to have a positive head-up tilt table (HUTT) test in patients with VVS. Methods: Nine polymorphisms in the ADRA1A (rs1048101, rs1383914, rs574584, and rs573542), ADRB1 (rs1801252 and rs1801253), ADRB2 (rs1042713 and rs1042714), and ADRB3 (rs4994) genes were analyzed using the 5’ exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assay in a group of 134 patients with VVS. Results Under different models, the rs1801252 (OR = 8.63, 95% CI: 0.95-78.72, Precessive = 0.02), rs1042713 (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.02-3.66, Padditive = 0.04), and rs4994 (OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.01-6.01, Pdominant = 0.042 and OR = 2.62, 95% CI: 1.04-6.63, Pover-dominant = 0.03) polymorphisms were associated with increased risk for a positive HUTT. All models were adjusted for statistically significant covariates. Conclusion These results suggest that some polymorphisms of the β-AR genes could contribute to a positive tilt test in patients with VVS.

La prueba de inclinación (Tilt Test). 20 años de experiencia en el diagnóstico del Síncope neurocardiogénico Tilt Test: 20 years of experience in the diagnosis of the neurocardiogenic syncope / Tilt Test: 20 years of experience in the diagnosis of the neurocardiogenic syncope

Objetivo: Valorar los resultados de las pruebas de inclinación realizadas en un lapso de 2 décadas. Métodos: Este es un estudio observacional, descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se analizaron los resultados de las Pruebas de Inclinación (PI) realizadas entre 1997 y 2018 en forma consecutiva por una sola persona, inicialmente en el Hospital Clínica Bíblica, posteriormente en el Instituto del Corazón y finalmente en los últimos 17 años en el Centro Cardiológico Integral. Resultados: Se realizaron un total de 2705 pruebas entre los años de 1997 y el 2018. El 60% fue del sexo femenino. Se hicieron 245 pruebas a menores de 20 años (17.3%), 996 pruebas a personas entre 20 y 40 años (36.8%), 969 pruebas a pa cientes entre los 40 y 60 años (35.8%) y a 271 pacientes mayores de 60 años (10%). Del total de la muestra evaluada, 2316 pacientes presentaron un resultado positivo para alguna de los diferentes tipos de respuesta en la prueba de inclinación, equivalente al 85.6%, mientras que 389 pacientes obtuvieron un resultado negativo (respuesta normal), equivalente al 14.4%. En la mayor cantidad de pacientes la positividad de la prueba se presentó en la fase II, 72.7% (1683 pacientes), el 27.3% (633 pacientes) la manifestaron en la fase I. Se presentó una respuesta vasodepresora en 1120 pacientes (48.2%), respuesta mixta en 727 pacientes (31.3%), respuesta cardioinhibidora en 304 casos (13.1%). Además, 69 pacientes pre sentaron una respuesta sugestiva (2.9%) y 104 pacientes tuvieron otros tipos de respuestas (4.5%). De estos últimos, 48% correspondió al síndrome de taquicardia postural ortostática (POTS), 17% a incompetencia cronotrópica, 19% a hipoten sión ortostática y 16% a disautonomía. Un total de 43 pacientes (1,6%) presentaron hipersensibilidad del seno carotídeo. Conclusiones: La PI en nuestro medio tiene una adecuada sensibilidad en el diagnóstico del Síncope Neurocardiológico (SNCG) en los diferentes grupos de edad, es un método seguro, fácil de realizar y accesible a la mayoría de las personas que la requieran

Tilt Test: 20 years of experience in the diagnosis of the neurocardiogenic syncope Objective: To evaluate the results of the tilt tests carried out during 2 decades. Methods: This is an observational, descriptive and retrospective study. We analyzed the results of the tilt tests conducted between 1997 and 2018 consecutively by a single person, initially at the "Hospital Clínica Bíblica", later at the "Instituto del Corazón" and finally in the last 17 years at the "Centro Cardiológico Integral". Results: A total of 2705 tests were carried out between 1997 and 2018. Sixty percent were female. There were 245 tests for people under 20 years (17.3%), 996 tests for people between 20 and 40 years (36.8%), 969 tests for patients between 40 and 60 years (35.8%) and 271 patients older than 60 years (10%). Of the total sample evaluated, 2316 patients presented a positive result for some of the different types of response in the tilt test, equivalent to 85.6%, while 389 patients obtained a negative result (normal response), equivalent to 14.4%. In the largest number of patients, the positivity of the test was presented in phase II, 72.7% (1683 patients), and 27.3% (633 patients) manifested it in phase I. A vasodepressant response was presented in 1120 patients (48.2%), mixed response in 727 patients (31.3%), cardioinhibitory response in 304 cases(13.1%). In addition, 69 patients presented a suggestive response (2.9%) and 104 patients had other types of responses (4.5%). Of the latter, 48% corresponded to orthostatic postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS), 17% to chronotropic incompetence, 19% to orthostatic hypotension and 16% to dysautonomia. A total of 43 patients (1.6%) presented hypersensitivity of the carotid sinus. Conclusions: Tilt test in our environment has an adequate sensitivity in the diagnosis of the neurocardiogenic syncope in different age groups, it is a safe method, easy to perform and accessible to most people who require it.

Lifetime Prevalence of Transient Loss of Consciousness in an Urban Russian Population / Prevalência de Perda de Consciência Temporária em População Russa Urbana

Abstract Background: Most international studies on epidemiology of transient loss of consciousness (TLC) were performed many years ago. There are no data about the lifetime prevalence of TLC in Russia. Objective: To identify the lifetime prevalence and presumed mechanisms of TLC in an urban Russian population. Methods: 1796 individuals (540 males [30.1%] and 1256 females [69.9%]) aged 20 to 69 years (mean age 45.8 ± 11.9 years) were randomly selected and interviewed within the framework of multicentre randomised observational trial. Results: The overall prevalence of TLC in the studied population was 23.3% (418/1796), with the highest proportion (28%) seen in 40-49 year age group. TLC was significantly more common in women than in men (27.5% vs 13.5%). The mean age of patients at the time of the first event was 16 (11; 23) years, with 333 (85%) individuals experiencing the first episode of TLC under 30 years. The average time after the first episode of TLC was 27 (12; 47) years. The following mechanisms of TLC were determined using the questionnaire: neurally-mediated syncope (56.5%), arrhythmogenic onset of syncope (6.0%), nonsyncopal origin of TLC (1.4%), single episode during lifetime (2.1%). Reasons for TLC remained unidentified in 34% cases. 27 persons (6.5%) reported a family history of sudden death, mainly patients with presumably arrhythmogenic origin (24%). Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the overall prevalence of TLC in individuals aged 20-69 years is high. The most common cause of TLC is neurally-mediated syncope. These data about the epidemiology can help to develop cost-effective management approaches to TLC.

Resumo Fundamento: A maioria dos estudos internacionais sobre epidemiologia da perda de consciência temporária (PCT) foi realizada há muitos anos. Não há dados sobre sua prevalência ao longo da vida na Rússia. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência ao longo da vida e os supostos mecanismos da PCT em uma população russa urbana. Métodos: 1.796 indivíduos (540 homens 30,1% e 1.256 mulheres 69,9%) com idade entre 20 e 69 anos (idade média, 45,8 ± 11,9 anos) foram selecionados aleatoriamente e entrevistados no contexto de um estudo multicêntrico randomizado observacional. Resultados: A prevalência global de PCT na população estudada foi 23,3% (418/1.796), sendo a mais alta proporção (28%) observada na faixa etária de 40-49 anos. PCT foi significativamente mais comum nas mulheres (27,5% vs 13,5%). A idade média dos pacientes por ocasião do primeiro evento foi 16 (11; 23) anos, com 333 (85%) indivíduos experienciando o primeiro episódio de PCT antes dos 30 anos. O tempo médio após o primeiro episódio de PCT foi 27 (12; 47) anos. Os seguintes mecanismos de PCT foram determinados usando-se um questionário: síncope neuromediada (56,5%), síncope de origem arritmogênica (6,0%), PCT de origem não sincopal (1,4%), episódio único durante a vida (2,1%). A causa de PCT não foi identificada em 34% dos casos, sendo que 27 pacientes (6,5%) relataram história familiar de morte súbita, principalmente aqueles com PCT de suposta origem arritmogênica (24%). Conclusão: Nossos achados sugerem uma alta prevalência global de PCT em indivíduos com idade entre 20 e 69 anos. A causa mais comum de PCT é a síncope neuromediada. Esse dado sobre a epidemiologia pode contribuir para o desenvolvimento de abordagem custo-efetiva para PCT.

Síncope neurocardiogênica em cão com doença valvular crônica de mitral - Relato de caso / Neurocardiogenic syncope in a dog with chronic mitral valvular disease - Case report / Síncope neurocardiogénico en perro con enfermedad valvular mitral crónica - Relato de caso

A doença valvular crônica de mitral é a enfermidade cardíaca mais comumente relatada em cães de pequeno e médio porte, adultos ou idosos. A síncope cardíaca é uma manifestação comumente observada, causada por diversos mecanismos. Objetivou-se relatar um caso desta doença em uma cadela da raça Teckel, com 16 anos de idade, que apresentava episódios recorrentes de síncope. Os episódios estavam associados com bradicardia, palidez de mucosas e aumento da pressão intratorácica. Excluindo-se outras causas de síncope, foi realizado o diagnóstico presuntivo de síncope neurocardiogênica, sendo a primeira descrição na medicina veterinária.

Chronic mitral valvular disease is the most commonly acquired heart disease in middle-aged to elderly dogs in small to medium-size breeds. Cardiac syncope is a common manifestation observed in such disease, caused by several mechanisms. The purpose of this study is to report a case of several syncope episodes in a Teckel dog aged 16 years, presenting chronic mitral valvular disease. The episodes were associated with bradycardia, pale mucous membranes and increased intra-thoracic pressure. The presumptive diagnosis of neurocardiogenic syncope was reached by excluding other causes of syncope, which is the first description in veterinary medicine.

La enfermedad valvular crónica de mitral es la enfermedad cardíaca más comúnmente reportada en perros de pequeño y mediano tamaño, adultos o ancianos. El síncope cardíaco es una manifestación comúnmente observada, causada por varios mecanismos. Esta investigación ha buscado relatar un caso de esta enfermedad en una perra de la raza Teckel, de 16 años de edad, que presentaba episodios recurrentes de síncope. Los episodios estaban asociados con bradicardia, palidez de mucosas y aumento de la presión intratorácica. Se ha excluido otras causas de síncope, se llevó a cabo el diagnóstico presuntivo de síncope neurocardiogénico, siendo la primera descripción en medicina veterinaria.

Role of Baroreflex Sensitivity in Predicting Tilt Training Response in Patients with Neurally Mediated Syncope

PURPOSE: An association between baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) and the response to tilt training has not been reported in patients with neurally mediated syncope (NMS). This study sought to investigate the role of BRS in predicting the response to tilt training in patients with NMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We analyzed 57 patients who underwent tilt training at our hospital. A responder to tilt training was defined as a patient with three consecutive negative responses to the head-up tilt test (HUT) during tilt training. RESULTS: After tilt training, 52 patients (91.2%) achieved three consecutive negative responses to the HUT. In the supine position before upright posture during the first session of tilt training for responders and non-responders, the mean BRS was 18.17+/-10.09 ms/mm Hg and 7.99+/-5.84 ms/mm Hg (p=0.008), respectively, and the frequency of BRS > or =8.945 ms/mm Hg was 45 (86.5%) and 1 (20.0%; p=0.004), respectively. Age, male gender, frequency of syncopal events before HUT, type of NMS, phase of positive HUT, total number of tilt training sessions, and mean time of tilt training did not differ between the study groups. In the multivariate analysis, BRS <8.945 ms/mm Hg in the supine position (odds ratio 23.10; 95% CI 1.20-443.59; p=0.037) was significantly and independently associated with non-response to tilt training. CONCLUSION: The BRS value in the supine position could be a predictor for determining the response to tilt training in patients with NMS who are being considered for inpatient tilt training.

Positive Result in the Early Passive Phase of the Tilt-table Test: A Predictor of Neurocardiogenic Syncope in Young Men

BACKGROUND/AIMS: This study elucidated the prognostic factors for neurocardiogenic syncope in males in their late teens and early twenties. METHODS: Tilt-table testing (TTT) was performed on 665 males (age range, 17 to 27 years) following the Italian protocol. The subjects were tilted head-up at a 70degrees angle on a table for 30 minutes during the passive phase. If the passive phase was negative, the subjects were given sublingual nitroglycerin and tilted to the same angle for 20 minutes during the drug-provocation phase. The subjects with positive results were followed without medication. We analyzed factors related to the recurrence rate of syncope. RESULTS: Of 305 subjects (45.8%) with positive results, 223 (age range, 18 to 26 years) were followed for 12 months. The frequency of previous syncopal episodes > or = 4 (p = 0.001) and a positive result during the passive phase (p = 0.022) were significantly related to a high recurrence rate. A positive result during the early passive phase ( 12 minutes; p = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: A positive result during the early passive phase of TTT and frequent previous syncopal episodes were prognostic factors for neurocardiogenic syncope in men in their late teens and early twenties.

¿Es necesaria la prueba de inclinación en pacientes con diagnóstico clínico de síncope vasovagal?: Resultados utilizando un protocolo no sensibilizado / Is the head-up tilt-test necessary in patients whit clinical diagnosis of vasovagal syncope?: Results using a non-sensitized protocol

Introducción:La prueba de inclinación es un estudio no invasivo, sencillo y de bajo riesgo, donde la utilización de protocolos no sensibilizados sirven para acortar los tiempos de la prueba. Objetivo:Determinar en pacientes con síncope la utilidad de la prueba de inclinación no sensibilizada con fármacos y comparar los resultados con la probabilidad clínica pre-test. Métodos:Se incluyeron pacientes >15 años de edad, con síncope o presíncope, con clínica sugestiva de origen vasovagal, utilizando la escala de Calgary. Resultados:Se analizaron 70 pacientes; edad: 39 ± 20 años, 66% mujeres. De los pacientes, 94% presentó una puntuación >-1, pero sólo 30% de las pruebas fueron positivas. Una puntuación >-2 no se asoció con el resultado de la prueba. La mayoría de los pacientes presentaron una puntuación de 1 (52) y 2 (11), resultando en una prueba positiva en 32% y 9%, respectivamente. En pacientes con probabilidad pre-test baja, hubo mayor número de pruebas negativas (100% con una puntuación de -2 y 50% con puntuación de -5). Conclusiones:El estudio mostró que en pacientes con síncope vasovagal, sugerido por la evaluación clínica, la prueba de inclinación no sensibilizada no proporcionó información adicional, con un número significativo de falsos negativos.

Introduction:Tilt table testing is a simple, non-invasive, low risk test. A not sensitized protocol has been presented in order to shorten the duration of the test. Objective:To determine the usefulness of a not sensitized tilt table testing and to compare the results with the pre-test probability, given by the Calgary's score. Methods:We included patients >15 years-old with syncope or presyncope with high probability pretest for a vasovagal origin, using the Calgary' score. Results:Seventy patients were analyzed; age 39 ± 20 years old, 66% female. More than 94% of the patients presented a score >-1, but only 30% of the tilt tests were positive. A score >-2 was not associated with the result of tilt test. Most of the patients presented a score of 1 (52) and 2 (11), resulting in positive tilt test 32% y 9%, respectively. Among patients with low pre-test probability there was a greater number of negative results (100% with a score of -2 and 50% with score of -5). Conclusions: This study showed that in patients with vasovagal syncope suggested by clinical assessment, a not sensitized tilt test did not provide additional information, with a significant number of false negatives.

Teste de inclinação (Tilt-test): do necessário ao imprescindível / Tilt test: from the necessary to the indispensable / Test de inclinación (Tilt-test): de lo necesario a lo imprescindible

O teste de inclinação (TI) é muito utilizado para a investigação de síncopes e pré-síncopes, pois possibilita o diagnóstico de diferentes tipos de disautonomias. A principal causa de síncope é a Síndrome Vasovagal, cujo diagnóstico é o mais frequente entre as indicações de TI. O exame é utilizado há cerca de 20 anos, mas muitos médicos desconhecem a metodologia. São importantes a indicação apropriada, após exclusão de causas cardíacas de síncope, e a orientação do paciente para garantir a tranquilidade e a segurança do teste. Existem controvérsias na literatura sobre a capacidade diagnóstica e a confiabilidade dos resultados. Os estudos com protocolos diversos podem explicar a variabilidade dos resultados. Nesta revisão, são colocadas as indicações e a metodologia recomendadas pelas diretrizes, complicações, limitações e perspectivas desse exame.

The head-up tilt test (HUTT) is widely used for investigation of syncope and presyncope, since it allows diagnosing different types of dysautonomia. The main cause of syncope is the vasovagal syndrome, the most common diagnosis among patients with HUTT indication. The test has been used for nearly 20 years, but many doctors are unaware of the methodology. After the cardiac causes of syncope are ruled out, the appropriate indication of the test and instructions to patients are important to ensure that the test will be carried out in a safe and relaxed manner. There are controversies in the literature over the diagnostic capacity and reliability of results. Studies with various protocols may explain the variability of results. This review describes the guidelines-recommended methodology and indications, complications, limitations and perspectives of this test.

El test de inclinación (TI) es muy utilizado para la investigación de síncopes y presíncopes, pues posibilita el diagnóstico de diferentes tipos de disautonomías. La principal causa de síncope es el Síndrome Vasovagal, cuyo diagnóstico es el más frecuente entre las indicaciones de TI. EL examen es utilizado hace cerca de 20 años, pero muchos médicos desconocen la metodología. Son importantes la indicación apropiada, después de exclusión de causas cardíacas de síncope, y la orientación del paciente para garantizar la tranquilidad y la seguridad del test. Existen controversias en la literatura sobre la capacidad diagnóstica y la confiabilidad de los resultados. Los estudios con protocolos diversos pueden explicar la variabilidad de los resultados. En esta revisión, son colocadas las indicaciones y la metodología recomendadas por las directrices, complicaciones, limitaciones y perspectivas de ese examen.

Hallazgos electrocardiográficos y clínicos durante la prueba de inclinación (tilt test) en pacientes con sospecha diagnóstica de síncope neurocardiogénico / Electrocardiographic and clinical findings during a trial of inclination (tilt test) in patients with suspected neurocardiogenic syncope

El Tilt test es reconocido como una herramienta diagnóstica para evaluar pacientes con síncope neuromediado. No se discutido como se puede predecir el síncope de una manera sencilla en vista de que no hay descripción de parámetros precisos que permitan predecir un Tislt test positivo. Se desea con este trabajo observar los parámetros electrocardiográficos o clínicos que permitan predecir el resultado de la prueba. Se evaluaron 275 pacientes con sospecha diagnóstica de síncope neuromediado a quienes se les realizó Tilt test (enero de 2000-2006. 108 pruebas fueron positivas (39%), y con respuesta vasodepresora un 94,5%. Edad promedio fue 32 años, sexo femenino 68%; un 74% tenían un electrocardiograma (EGC) normal al inicio del tilt test y 41% presentó arritmia sinusual durante la prueba. Los cambios en el ECG más frecuentes fueron la taquicardia sinusal (19%) y ritmo de la unión (9,5%). Hubo descenso de la presión arterial sistólica (PAS), desde la fase basal hasta el final de la prueba, la PAD tuvo un incremento inicial y luego descendió, La respuesta positiva sin droga en el grupo de escolares y adolescentes fue predominante. Los hallazgos clínicos más frecuentes fueron; mareo, presíncope y síncope. Existen hallazgos clínicos y electrocardiográficos como el pre síncope y la arritmia sinusal que por su alto valor predictivo negativo, pudieran predecir una alta probabilidad de un resultado negativo del tilt test.

Tilt testing is recognized as a valuable diagnostic tool for the evaluation of patients with neuromediated syncope. To date, it is not possible to predict syncope in a simple manner in view of the fact that there is no description of precise parameters that may predict a positive tilt test. To observe electrocardiographic and clinical features that may predict the outcome of testing. For this, 275 patients with a suspected diagnosis of neurocardiogenic syncope were evaluated with a tilt-test from January 2000 to January 2006. A total of 108 test were positive (39%) and a vasodepressor response was seen in 94.5%. The mean age was 32 years (range: 7 to 92 years). Women accounted for 68%; 74% of the patients had a normal electrocardiogram at the beginning of the test and 41% developed sinus arrhymia during the test. The most common electrocardiographical changes durint the test were sinus tachycardia (19%) and junctional rhythm (9.5%). A drop in systolic blood pressure between the start and the end of the test was observed. The diastolic blood pressure showed an initial increase followed by a decrease. There were more positive responses without drugs in the group of students and adolescents. The most frequent clinical features were dizziness, presyncope and syncope. There are clinical and electrocardiographical fundings such as presyncope and sinus arrhythmia that because of their high negative predictive value, could predict a high probability of a negative tilt test result.

Características e resultados do teste de inclinação na população sintomática: [revisão] / Characteristcs and results of tilt table testing in symptomatic population: [review] / Características y resultados de la prueba de inclinación en la población sintomática: [revisión]

Síncope é um sintoma de prevalência significativa na população geral e possui prognóstico variável de acordo com sua etiologia. O teste de inclinação ou Tilt-teste é um exame útil na investigação dos pacientes com Síncope, Hipotensão Postural e Disautonomia e trata-se de um exame já rotineiro em nosso meio. Objetivo: Analisar o índice de positividade do exame, além dos seus tipos de respostas mais comuns, e a necessidade do uso da sensibilização com dinitrato de isossorbida no auxílio do diagnóstico. Material e métodos: Entre o período de março de 2005 a junho de 2009, foram avaliados 348 pacientes submetidos ao Tilt-teste, dentre os quais, 244(70,1%) pacientes eram do sexo feminino com idade média de 36 anos. Resultados: O Tilt-teste foi negativo em 163(46,8%) pacientes. Nos exames positivos, o tipo mais comum de resposta foi a vasodepressora em 113(32,47%) pacientes, seguido pela resposta mista em 56(16,1%) pacientes e cardioninibiotória em 14(4%) pacientes. Dois pacientes apresentaram quadros de Disautonomia e Síndrome da Taquicardia Postural Ortostática (POTS). O tempo médio para positivação dos exames foi de 28 minutos após início da ortostase, sendo que, em 166(89,72%) pacientes, foi necessário uso de sensibilização com dinitrato de isossorbida por via sublingual. Conclusão: Na população estudada, observamos que o Tilt-teste foi positivo em 53,2% dos casos. Dentre esses pacientes, a forma mais comum de resposta da síncope neurocardiogênica foi a vasodepressora em 113 pacientes, sendo que o uso da sensibilização foi necessário em quase 90% dos pacientes na positivação dos exames.

Syncope is a symptom of significant prevalence in the general population and has changeable prognostic in accordance with its etiology. The inclination test or Tilt table test is a useful examination in the investigation of patients with syncope, postural hypotension and disautonomy and it is a routine examination already in our way. Objective: To analyze the positive rate of the exam, in addition to its most common types of response and the need of sensitization with isosorbide dinitrate to aid the diagnosis. Material and methods: 348 patients submitted to Tilt table test were evaluated between March of 2005 and June of 2009, 244 (70.1%) females at the mean age of 36 years. Results: The Tilt table test was negative in 163 (46.8%) patients. In the positive exams the most common type of response was the vasodepressor in 113 (32.47%) patients, followed by the mixed response in 56 (16.1%) patients and cardioinhibitory in 14 (4%) patients. Two patients had history of disautonomy and Postural Ortostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). The average time for positivation of the examinations was of 28 minutes after the beginning of the ortostasis, in 166 (89.72%) patients the use of sensitization with isosorbide dinitrate via sublingual was necessary. Conclusion: In the studied population weobserve that the Tilt table test was positive in 53,2% of the cases. Among these patients the most common response of neurocardiogenic syncope was the vasodepressor in 113 patients and the use of the sensitization was necessary in almost 90% of the patients in the positivation of the examinations.

Síncope es un síntoma de prevalencia significativa en la población general y tiene pronóstico variable de acuerdo con su etiología. La prueba de inclinación o Tilt-test es un examen útilen la investigación de los pacientes con Síncope, Hipotensión Postural y Disautonomia y ya se trata de un examen de rutina en nuestro medio. Objetivo: Analizar el índice de positividad del examen, además de sus tipos de respuestas más comunes, y la necesidad del uso de la sensibilización con dinitrato de isosorbida para ayudar el diagnóstico. Material y métodos: Entre el período de marzo de 2005 y junio de 2009, se evaluaron a 348 pacientes sometidos al Tilt-test, entre los cuales, 244 (70,1%) pacientes eran del sexo femenino con edad media de 36 años. Resultados: El Tilt-test fue negativo en 163 (46,8%) pacientes. En los exámenes positivos, el tipo más común de respuesta fue la vasodepresora en 113 (32,47%) pacientes, seguido de la respuesta mixta en 56 (16,1%) pacientes y cardioinhibitoria en 14 (4%) pacientes. Dos pacientes presentaron cuadros de Disautonomia y Síndrome de Taquicardia Postural Ortostática (POTS). El tiempo medio para positivación de losexámenes foi de 28 minutos tras el inicio de la ortostasis, siendo que, en 166 (89,72%) pacientes, fuenecesario el uso de sensibilización con dinitrato de isosorbida por vía sublingual. Conclusión: En la población estudiada, observamos que el Tilt-test fue positivo en el 53,2% de los casos. Entre dichos pacientes, la forma más común de respuesta del síncope neurocardiogénico fue la vasodepresora en 113 pacientes, siendo que el uso de la sensibilización fue necesario en casi el 90% de los pacientes en la positivación de los exámenes.

A predispodição genética na síncope vasovagal / Neurocariogenic syncope and hereditarity

OBJETIVO: Investigar uma possível predisposição genética para síncope vasovagal. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, com 252 indivíduos com história de síncope, submetidos ao teste de inclinação (TI) no Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, durante o período de setembro de 2001 a setembro de 2005. Foi analisada a relação entre história familiar positiva para síncope vasovagal e resultado do TI. RESULTADOS: Todos indivíduos foram submetidos ao TI sendo que 126 (50 por cento) casualmente tiveram resultado positivo para síncope vasovagal. História familiar dessa patologia foi identificada em 40 por cento (49/126 casos) dos pacientes com teste de inclinação positivo e em 25 por cento (31/126 pacientes) daqueles que tiveram TI negativo (p= 0,01). CONCLUSÃO: Há uma correlação entre a história familiar de síncope vasovagal e sua ocorrência. É possível que um componente genético possa explicar essa relação.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate a possible familial predisposition in neurocardiogenic syncope. METHODS: Cross-sectional survey with 252 subjects, with positive familial history for syncope, who underwent head-up tilt-test (TT) at Instituto de Cardiologia do Rio Grande do Sul, between September 2001 and September 2005. The relationship between familial history for neurocardiogenic syncope and TT result was analysed. RESULTS: Familial history for neurocardiogenic syncope was identified in 40 percent (49/126 cases) of subjects with positive tilt-test results and 25 percent (31/126 ) of those with negative TT. CONCLUSION: There is a correlation between familial history for neurocardiogenic syncope and its occurence. A genetic component can possibly explain this relationship.

Teste de inclinação abreviado e potencializado com nitrato: comparação de dois distintos na investigação de síncope neuromediada / Abbreviated nitrate-stimulated tilt test: comparison of two distinct protocols for investigating of neuromediated syncope

Fundamentos: O teste de inclinação (TI) sem fase passiva ou com fases mais curtas tem demonstrado boa acurácia, sensibilidade, especificidade e redução do tempo de duração do exame. Objetivo: Comparar dois protocolos de TI abreviados. Métodos: Incluídos 234 pacientes com síncope (scp) recorrente, sugestiva de origem neuromediada e investigação cardiológica e/ou neurológica negativas. No Grupo 1 (com fase passiva), 130 pacientes (55,5%) realizaram o TI com primeira fase da inclinação nãopotencializada (PFNP), sendo administrado o dinitrato 1,25mg no 15º minuto da inclinação; no Grupo 2 (sem fase passiva), com 104 pacientes (44,5%) o dinitrato era administrado antes da inclinação, no 5º minuto, com ambas as fases potencializadas (AFP). Eram 112 homens (47,8%) e a média de idade 55,8±22,2 anos. A resposta neuromediada foi determinada pelo padrão hemodinâmico e avaliada pela classificação de VASIS. Resultados: Comparados os dois protocolos abreviados não houve diferença estatística em relação ao número de TI positivos (p=0,09). O tempo médio para a scp foi menor no Grupo 2 (p<0,0001). A forma vasodepressora foi mais encontrada no Grupo 1 (p<0,001), especialmente nos idosos e a hipotensão postural foi mais encontrada no Grupo 2 (p=0,02). Houve maior tendência de resposta mista em jovens (0,07). As demais respostas foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. Conclusões: Os protocolos abreviados foram seguros, com reprodução da scp similar nos grupos e faixas etárias e redução no tempo de positivação e duração total do TI no grupo com AFP. A forma vasodepressora foi a mais prevalente no grupo PFNP, especialmente nos idosos.

Background: The tilt test (TT) with no passive phase or with briefer phases has shown good accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, with shorter examination times. Objective: To compare two abbreviated TT protocols. Methods: This study encompasses 234 patients with recurrent syncope suggesting neuromediated origin and negative cardiological and/or neurological investigations. In Group 1 (with passive phase), 130 patients (55.5%) underwent the TT with the first tilt phase not stimulated (FPNS), with 1.25mg of dinitrate administered during the 15th minute of tilting; in Group 2 (with no passive phase), encompassing 104 patients (44.5%) the dinitrate was administered before tilting during the 5th minute, with both phases stimulated (BPS) for 112 men (47.8%) with an average age of 55.8±22.2 years. The neuromediated response was determined by the homodynamic standard and assessed through the VASIS classification. Results: A comparison of the two abbreviated protocols showed no statistical difference in terms of the number of positive TTs (p=0.09). The average syncope time was shorter in Group 2 (p<0.0001). The vasodepressor (p<0.001) and postural hypotension (p=0.02) forms were found more in Group 1, especially among the elderly. There was a higher trend towards mixed responses among younger participants (0.07). The other responses were similar in both Groups. Conclusions: The abbreviated protocols were safe, with similar syncope reproduction in the Groups and age brackets, with shorter positivation times and total durations of the TTs in the BPS group. The vasodepressor form was the most prevalent in the FPNS Group, especially among the elderly.

Síncope vasovagal: metodología diagnóstica, patrones hemodinámicos, estrategia de manejo, implicancias clínicas y seguimiento a largo plazo en 150 pacientes / Syncope vasovagal: diagnostic methodology, hemodynamic patterns, management strategy, clinical implications and long term follow-up in 150 patients

Presentar nuestra experiencia en el diagnóstico del Síncope Vasovagal o Cardioneurogénico, su tratamiento, las implicancias clínicas prácticas y su seguimiento a largo plazo. Antecedentes: El síncope es un síntoma relativamente frecuente y su elevación y manejo es importante en la práctica clínica. Los patrones hemodinámicas observados durante su inducción, han sido sugeridos como una guía terapéutica, sin embargo en el momento no existe una estrategia de manejo definida y las recurrencias son frecuentes en el seguimiento. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo longitudinal de 150 pacientes con historia de por lo menos 2 episodios sincopales. Las edades oscilaron entre 05 y 73 años y 90 fueron de sexo femenino. El diagnóstico inicial se basó en la historia clínica detallada de los episodios, examen físico y un electrocardiograma y si los datos eran sugestivos de síncope reflejo vasovagal, se realizó el test de inclinación. Estos pacientes siguieron una estrategia de manejo no farmacológico e independiente del patrón hemodinámico sincopal. Se realizó un seguimiento promedio de 2 años y medio. Resultados: La prueba de inclinación fue positiva en 135 pacientes. Los patrones hemodinámicas fueron 105 con respuesta de tipo mixto, 22 cardioinhibitoria y 8 de tipo vasodepresor. Todos los pacientes recibieron tratamiento no farmacológico consistente en orientación, dietas, posturas, reeducación refleja y en el seguimiento hubo recurrencia sincopal en 15 (10 por ciento). Conclusiones: 1) La historia clínica detallada, el examen físico y un electrocardiograma normal nos permitió identificar un 90 por ciento de pacientes con u test de inclinación positivo lo que resulta de interés clínico. 2) E tratamiento no farmacológico e independiente del patrón hemodinámico de la prueba de inclinación, se asoció a un 90 por ciento de pacientes sin recurrencia en el seguimiento, lo cual también es de implicancia clínica, por lo que proponemos el mismo como primera opción...