Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: October 29, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for Syncope in a 14-Month-Old

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Vasovagal Syncope: This is the most common cause of syncope in children, often triggered by pain, fear, or prolonged standing. It's characterized by a brief loss of consciousness due to a sudden decrease in blood flow to the brain.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Breath-Holding Spells: Common in infants and toddlers, these spells can lead to syncope. They are usually triggered by emotional distress or pain.
  • Seizures: Though not typically the first consideration for syncope, seizures can present with loss of consciousness and may be confused with syncope.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This condition involves a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can lead to syncope. It might be seen in children who are dehydrated or have autonomic dysfunction.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Cardiac Anomalies (e.g., Long QT Syndrome, Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy): These conditions can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias and are critical to identify. Though less common, they are potentially fatal if missed.
  • Intracranial Hemorrhage or Mass: Though rare, any form of intracranial pathology can cause syncope and is crucial to rule out due to the high risk of severe outcomes.
  • Infections (e.g., Meningitis, Sepsis): Severe infections can lead to syncope among other symptoms and require immediate medical attention.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Metabolic Disorders: Certain metabolic conditions can lead to episodes of syncope, though they are less common.
  • Neurocardiogenic Syncope with Prolonged Asystole: A rare form of vasovagal syncope that can lead to more prolonged loss of consciousness.
  • Subclavian Steal Syndrome: A rare condition where there's a reversal of blood flow in the vertebral artery due to a stenosis or occlusion of the subclavian artery, potentially leading to syncope.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.