Swallow syncope associated with complete atrioventricular block: a case report and review of the literature.
Swallow or deglutition syncope is a very unusual but treatable disorder. A 44-year-old male presented with multiple, recurrent episodes of complete atrioventricular block associated with swallowing. Over a 24-hour period, 92 episodes of complete atrioventricular block occurring with meals were recorded by Holter monitoring. Evaluation did not demonstrate any underlying esophageal or cardiac disease. A trial of anticholinergic medications was unsuccessful. The patient's symptoms resolved following placement of a demand cardiac pacemaker. This is a rare but potentially lethal disorder that can be successfully treated if recognized. Physicians should be alerted to symptoms of lightheadedness or syncope during meals.
Elam
M P
MP
Laird
J R
JR
Johnson
S
S
Stratton
J R
JR
D000328:Adult; D003679:Deglutition; D006327:Heart Block / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012021:Reflex, Abnormal; D013575:Syncope / Q000209:etiology*