CARDIOVASCULAR SYNCOPE IS THE MOST COMMON-CAUSE OF DROP ATTACKS IN THE ELDERLY

Drop attacks are defined as a sudden loss of postural tone without los s of consciousness. The mechanism is often unknown. This report examin es findings in consecutive elderly patients with drop articles referre d to a dedicated ''syncope and falls'' center, Thirty-five patients we re included. A diagnosis was established in 25 (71%); cardioinhibitory cartoid sinus syndrome (CSS) or mixed CSS in 15, vasodepressor GSS in 3, orthostatic hypotension in 5, vasovagal syncope in 1, and gait imb alance in 1. In 21%, more than one pathological diagnosis was present. In conclusion, absence of a history of syncope is unreliable in elder ly patients, and these individuals should be routinely investigated fo r hemodynamic changes during carotid massage and standing.