Carotid sinus syndrome

Abstract
Five cases of carotid sinus syndrome were presented. The syndrome was defined by spontaneous attacks of dizziness and fainting which can be reproduced by graded pressure on 1 carotid sinus. Three forms of the clinical syndrome, cardioinhibitory, vasodepressor and cerebral, were discussed. The hyperactive carotid sinus reflex, in which there is ventricular asystole lasting at least 3 s or a decrease of more than 50 mm Hg in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, should be differentiated from this syndrome. Treatment modalities include reassurance, drugs, radiotherapy, cardiac pacemakers and surgical approaches. Carotid sinus syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis of unexplained syncope, arteriovenous block or inappropriate sinus bradycardia.

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