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The history of diagnosing carotid sinus hypersensitivity: why are the current criteria too sensitive?

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Steve Parry

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Abstract

The carotid sinus syndrome and carotid sinus hypersensitivity (CSH) are closely related disorders. The first is characterized by syncope triggered by manipulation of the carotid sinus in daily life (e.g. shaving). According to the current European Society of Cardiology guidelines, CSH is diagnosed when carotid sinus massage elicits >= 3 s asystole, a fall in systolic blood pressure of >= 50 mmHg, or both, with symptoms. The question is, however, whether symptoms can be expected when these criteria are met. Although they are widely accepted, we will show that their basis is primarily in arbitrary clinical observations and that in the original publications the link between classification and clinical symptoms was often dubious. The current criteria for CSH are thus too sensitive, explaining the reported high prevalence of CSH in the general older population. The review will conclude with suggesting a stricter set of criteria for CSH that should be evaluated in future studies.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Krediet CTP, Parry SW, Jardine DL, Benditt DG, Brignole M, Wieling W

Publication type: Review

Publication status: Published

Journal: Europace

Year: 2011

Volume: 13

Issue: 1

Pages: 14-22

Print publication date: 01/01/2011

ISSN (print): 1099-5129

ISSN (electronic): 1532-2092

Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESS

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/europace/euq409

DOI: 10.1093/europace/euq409

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