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Published on: July 21, 2013
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Syncope Caused by a Head and Neck Cancer Controlled by a Permanent Pacemaker
Ana Rita Barradas1, Francisco Albuquerque1, Mariana Constante1
1Internal Medicine Department, Egas Moniz Hospital, Lisbon, Portugal.
European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine
|June 12, 2020
Summary
Carotid sinus syndrome causing syncope due to head and neck cancer is rare. Early diagnosis and treatment, including pacemaker implantation, led to a positive outcome in this case.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Oncology
- Neurology
Background:
- Carotid sinus syndrome (CSS) is a rare cause of syncope.
- Head and neck cancer can rarely cause CSS through direct invasion or compression of the carotid sinus.
- Transient loss of consciousness (TLOC) diagnosis can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of syncope secondary to CSS caused by head and neck cancer.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of CSS in cancer patients.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient presenting with recurrent syncope.
- Diagnostic evaluation including assessment for CSS.
- Management involving chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and pacemaker implantation.
Main Results:
- The patient experienced recurrent syncope due to extreme bradycardia.
- Pacemaker implantation was required to manage the bradycardia.
- Chemotherapy and radiation therapy were initiated for the underlying head and neck cancer.
Conclusions:
- CSS due to head and neck cancer is an uncommon but significant cause of syncope.
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention, including pacemaker implantation and cancer treatment, are crucial for positive outcomes.
- Clinical examination is important for diagnosing TLOC, but challenging cases require further investigation.
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