Swallow syncope associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation.
Swallow or deglutition syncope is a very unusual potentially lethal but treatable disorder. We report the case of a 26-year-old woman, who presented with a history of recurrent, multiple fainting episodes precipitated by swallowing. Twenty-four-hour manometry and pH recording together with continuous 24-h ECG monitoring revealed multiple episodes of symptomatic and asymptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, and significant gastro-oesophageal reflux associated with swallowing. Oesophageal function tests and continuous electrocardiographic evaluation is important in the diagnosis of this rare condition.
Gordon
Jackie
J
Department of Cardio Thoracic Surgery, Yorkshire Heart Centre, Jubilee Wing, D-Floor, The General Infirmary, Leeds, UK.
Saleem
Syed M
SM
Ngaage
Dumbor L
DL
Thorpe
James A C
JA
D000328:Adult; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications* / Q000175:diagnosis; D003679:Deglutition; D015716:Electrocardiography, Ambulatory; D005260:Female; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008365:Manometry; D018670:Monitoring, Ambulatory; D013575:Syncope / Q000209:etiology*