The diagnostic protocol in children and adolescents with syncope: a multi-centre prospective study

Aim: The appropriate diagnostic protocol for children with syncope has not been well established. A diagnostic protocol was developed and prospectively implemented to improve the diagnostic performance of paediatricians.
Methods: The study population included 474 consecutive patients (range 6–17 years) presenting with a syncopal spell in one of the five participating hospitals of China. In step 1, all patients underwent initial evaluation for history, physical examination, standing test and standard electrocardiography (ECG). In step 2, priority was given to cardiographic tests for possibly cardiogenic syncope, or electroencephalographic examination and brain imaging for suspected neurological syncope, or psychiatric tests for suspected psychiatric syncope. Patients with unexplained syncope underwent head-up tilt testing (HUT).
Results: The initial evaluation gave a definite diagnosis in 59 (12.4%) and possible diagnosis in 54 of the 474 patients. Further testing gave a definite diagnosis for 326 patients (69.7%). After the entire diagnostic protocol, definite diagnosis was established in 385 patients (81.1%). Autonomic-mediated reflex syncope (AMS) accounted for 73.0% of cases. The average cost of diagnostic results per patient was RMB 1030.24 ± 150.09 ($118.42 ± 17.25).
Conclusion: The use of a simplified diagnostic protocol for children and adolescents with syncope improves diagnostic yield.