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Development of Compendium for Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: April 12, 2024
Recurrent Syncope due to Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
A Casini1, E Tschanz, P Y Dietrich
1Departments of Internal Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland.
Case Reports in Oncology
|November 17, 2011
Summary
Recurrent syncope can signal neck cancer metastasis. This case highlights successful radiotherapy for carotid sinus syndrome caused by esophageal cancer spread, emphasizing oncologic evaluation for cancer survivors with syncope.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Syncope, or fainting, has diverse causes, but recurrent syncope linked to malignancy is rare and challenging.
- Neck tumors, including primary carcinomas or metastases in the parapharyngeal and carotid spaces, can affect the internal carotid artery.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old man experienced recurrent syncope due to his right carotid sinus being invaded by metastases from esophageal carcinoma.
- The patient presented with symptoms mimicking carotid sinus syndrome.
Findings:
- The patient's recurrent syncope was successfully treated with radiotherapy.
- This case demonstrates that neurally mediated syncope can arise from carotid sinus involvement by neck cancer metastases.
Implications:
- Syncope may be an early indicator of neck or cervical cancer recurrence or metastasis.
- Cancer survivors presenting with syncope require thorough evaluation, including consideration of neck tumors and oncologic workup.
- Treatment options for malignancy-related carotid sinus syndrome include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy.
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